ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb on Tuesday called on Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi at the Supreme Court of Pakistan.

During the meeting, the CJP highlighted the Supreme Court’s ongoing initiatives aimed at improving access to justice, modernising court systems, categorisation of tax-related cases and enhancing service delivery through technology-driven reforms.

He emphasised the importance of ensuring the success of the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism, introduced to facilitate the timely resolution of tax-related disputes.

The CJP stressed that government support was crucial to making the initiative a success.

He also informed the finance minister that training sessions were currently being conducted at the Federal Judicial Academy for judicial officers and members of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), with plans to extend similar training to officers of the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) in the near future.

The federal minister appreciated the judiciary’s reform agenda and assured the government’s continued cooperation in ensuring the timely provision of requisite resources for judicial development projects. Both sides underscored the importance of coordinated efforts between the judiciary and the executive in upholding the rule of law and safeguarding citizens’ fundamental rights.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court, in a separate announcement, stated that it will remain open and fully operational on Wednesday (today), in accordance with its regular schedule.

In light of the notification issued by the Office of the District Magistrate, Islamabad Capital Territory, declaring Aug 13 as a local holiday within the revenue limits of Islamabad Capital Territory — excluding offices engaged in essential services — it is clarified that the Supreme Court, as a constitutional institution, will continue to conduct its judicial proceedings and administrative functions without interruption.

Litigants, lawyers, and other stakeholders were advised to follow their scheduled hearings and official engagements as usual, the statement added.

Published in Dawn, August 13th, 2025