Govt says fully focused on energy supplies

Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervez Malik emphasized on Sunday that the government is fully focused on ensuring secure energy supplies. Addressing a public gathering in his constituency Mughalpura, Malik stated that the government has submitted a summary to the federal cabinet to facilitate LPG imports from abroad, aiming to prevent fuel shortages during emergencies.

The minister assured that the government is taking advance planning to guarantee the availability of crude oil, petrol, diesel, gas, and LPG, especially given the evolving international energy landscape.

Responding to concerns about gas supplies during winter months, Malik mentioned that comprehensive arrangements are being made to cater to consumer needs throughout December, January, and February. The Prime Minister and the federal cabinet have been informed about the country's gas requirements, availability, and potential challenges, according to Malik.

He clarified that LPG prices are determined by OGRA, with Saudi Aramco's monthly Contract Price (CP) playing a crucial role in the pricing mechanism. To ensure adequate LPG availability during winter due to rising demand and regional circumstances, Malik said measures are being implemented. In terms of petroleum price relief, the minister emphasized that providing relief to people is the government's top priority, with plans in place to maintain uninterrupted gas supplies during the upcoming winter season.

Over nine million citizens have benefited from the government's relief scheme offering Rs100 per litre to eligible consumers, Malik assured. He pledged that once international oil prices decrease, the benefit would be promptly passed on to Pakistani consumers. Malik underscored that the government is fully aware of the challenges people face due to rising petroleum prices and is making every effort to provide relief without imposing additional burdens beyond the rise in international oil prices.

The minister explained that petroleum prices are determined through a transparent mechanism, with relevant information available on the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) website for public understanding. Malik informed that the government, on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif's directives, has introduced measures to ease relief for low-income segments, including motorcyclists and users of vehicles up to 800cc.

Motorcyclists are receiving Rs100 per litre relief under the scheme, benefiting approximately nine million individuals.

He reiterated that the government would continue the scheme within its available resources and will persist in offering relief as long as it remains financially viable. Regarding security concerns, Malik highlighted the regional challenges and the resurgence of terrorist activities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, urging all political leaders to demonstrate unity and solidarity to combat terrorism and protect the nation's borders.

He appealed to political leaders, especially those from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, to understand the gravity of the situation and contribute to national security.

Stressing that "if there is a country, there is everything for us; if there is no country, there is nothing," Malik urged political leaders and military leadership to remain united for the greater national interest. He emphasized that political differences should be resolved later, while the immediate priority is to safeguard the country's security.

Malik acknowledged the sacrifices of martyrs for Pakistan's security and survival and called for the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to take his responsibilities seriously in addressing national security matters.

He noted that while there are opportunities for political differences and criticism, the immediate focus should be on uniting against terrorism and securing Pakistan's future. Malik affirmed that the state is more important than any individual or political personality, adding that if personal interests are considered more important than national interests, it is a matter of concern.

He stated that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other leaders have repeatedly extended an invitation for dialogue and reconciliation with opposition parties, emphasizing that national sovereignty and dignity should never be compromised.