ISLAMABAD: Finance Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar said that in line with the tradition of the last three years, the government was according top priority to the well-being of the general public in the upcoming budget.

Chairing separate meetings with senior officials of Finance Division and Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) on the upcoming budget, the minister said that the budget measures would be focused on employment generation and achieving higher, sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

The Minister urged for close coordination and thorough preparations by all departments and ministries involved in budget- related events including the presentation of the budget in the Parliament and launching of the Economic Survey.

He said the budget was being prepared after extensive consultations with all stakeholders including the business community, traders and chambers of commerce and industries, who all have provided valuable and constructive suggestions.

He encouraged all concerned officials to continue putting in their best efforts to finalize all the arrangements in a timely manner.

During the meeting with Finance Division officials, Secretary Finance informed the Minister that budget preparations were progressing smoothly according to the prescribed timelines. He also apprised him about proposals for consideration in the budget for FY 2017-18.

In separate meeting with FBR officials, Chairman of the board also gave a presentation to the Finance Minister on tax measures envisaged in the next budget, including measures for improvement in the system of tax collection, broadening the tax base, and facilitation to tax-payers.