Former finance minister Sartaj Aziz passed away on Tuesday at the age of 94.
Aziz, who was born in Nowshera in February 1929, was a senior politician from the Nawaz Sharif-led party. During his long political career, he held significant government positions, such as minister of finance and economic affairs.
He previously served as a senator from 1985 to 1999 and was chosen as a national security and international affairs advisor in the 2013 general election.
The politician established economic policy for the country while serving in the Ministry of Finance and the Planning Commission.
Aside from his duties as federal minister, Aziz was the assistant president of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the director of the Food and Agriculture Organization's Commodities and Trade Division.
The two-time finance minister was regarded as a respected figure in national discourse, with sharp observations and analysis on economic and political matters.
He offered his expertise and point of view through the many books and articles he wrote throughout the years.
"Mr. Sartaj Aziz died. He was a veteran of the Pakistani movement and an invaluable asset to the country. He will be sadly missed. His contributions to the nation will be recognized in perpetuity. I had the pleasure of working closely with him and will never forget his kindness and advice. May Allah bless his soul and grant patience to his family, Ameen," Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Ahsan Iqbal posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.
President Arif Alvi also conveyed his condolences and sympathy to the survivors of the deceased. He also prayed for Aziz's forgiveness and the patience of his family.