ISLAMABAD: The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet has approved a Technical Supplementary Grant of Rs6.6 billion for the purchase of 30 bulletproof vehicles ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit scheduled to take place in Pakistan in September 2027.
The ECC meeting was chaired by Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb. The committee reviewed a proposal submitted by the Cabinet Division seeking Rs12.6 billion for the procurement of bulletproof vehicles intended to transport heads of state and other high-level dignitaries attending the summit.
After examining the requirement, the ECC approved Rs6.6 billion for the purchase of 30 bulletproof vehicles. It also instructed the Cabinet Division to reassess its request for the remaining amount before seeking further approval.
The committee also reviewed a proposal from the Ministry of National Food Security and Research concerning the minimum prices of tobacco crops and cess rates for the financial year 2026-27. The matter was considered as part of measures related to agricultural pricing and revenue collection.
Another key item on the agenda involved the export of donkey meat and hides from the Gwadar Free Zone. The ECC considered recommendations prepared by a committee constituted by the Ministry of National Food Security and Research to address issues surrounding these exports.
Following detailed consideration, the committee approved the proposal along with the safeguards recommended by the ministry. The decision is expected to establish a framework for regulating the export of donkey meat and hides from the free zone.
The ECC further approved Rs5 billion in initial capital for the Danish Schools Authority Fund through a Technical Supplementary Grant. The fund will be maintained under an endowment framework, aimed at supporting the development of educational initiatives.
The committee also reviewed progress on the Pakistan Skills Impact Bond, highlighting the government’s focus on strengthening skills development and improving employment-oriented training.
The meeting was attended by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, National Food Security and Research Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain, Investment Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervez Malik and Prime Minister’s Adviser on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan.
