ISLAMABAD: The federal government has asked provincial governments to share the burden of subsidies on petroleum products.
In this regard, key decisions on fuel pricing were discussed during a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in the backdrop of a potential energy crisis and rising regional tensions.
The meeting on the petroleum situation and energy challenges was attended by federal ministers, chief ministers of all four provinces, the Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan, and the Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir.
During the meeting, participants were briefed on the possible energy crisis in light of ongoing regional tensions. The government’s austerity measures and proposed plans for energy conservation were also discussed in detail.
According to sources, important matters regarding petroleum product prices came under consideration. The federal government formally urged provinces to contribute to the subsidy on petroleum products. Proposals were also reviewed to pass the full burden of any increase in petroleum prices on consumers.
On the occasion, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar briefed the participants on his recent visit to China. He also informed the meeting about Pakistan’s efforts to mediate in the ongoing Iran-US negotiations.
In another important session regarding the regional situation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a separate meeting attended by Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, chief ministers of all four provinces including Gilgit-Baltistan, and members of the federal cabinet.
Addressing the meeting, the Prime Minister stated that the regional conflict has entered its second month and expressed sorrow over the loss of lives. He said Pakistan has made every effort to de-escalate tensions and is actively working to promote peace in the region.
