Pakistan continuing efforts for peace in Middle East as before: PM Shehbaz
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday reiterated that Pakistan was continuing its efforts for the restoration of peace in the Middle East amid escalating global fuel prices. The premier made the remarks while addressing a meeting of the federal cabinet. In his address, he noted that global oil prices had “skyrocketed” due to the instability in the region. “Pakistan is playing its role as…
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed on Wednesday that the country remains committed to promoting peace in the Middle East, despite surging fuel prices worldwide. Addressing a federal cabinet meeting, he attributed the sharp increase in oil prices to regional instability. The premier highlighted Pakistan's ongoing diplomatic efforts, including recent talks with Tehran and other regional partners, as well as its participation in the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement.
Shehbaz Sharif also noted that the government had initially planned to increase fuel prices by Rs15 on Friday; however, the Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik mediated with refineries to absorb the cost of their excess profits. The Prime Minister emphasized that no common citizen should have to bear this financial burden. The fuel subsidy scheme, initiated in September, will continue until the end of December, having already consumed Rs28 billion.
The scheme is described as both successful and transparent, with the Intelligence Bureau closely monitoring its implementation.
In terms of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), Shehbaz Sharif declared the era of LPG profiteering a thing of the past, emphasizing a more transparent arrangement for its distribution. When imported, LPG will now be auctioned in lots, with the government retaining profits to subsidize the costs for ordinary consumers.
Addressing Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Shehbaz Sharif announced a proposed Rs160 billion package to bolster the province's security, stating that "security is our number one, two, and three priority." He underscored that counterterrorism measures would be intensified, with the federal government, local law enforcement, and KP's new administration working in unison to eradicate terrorism.
The Prime Minister pledged that this collective effort would be a significant accomplishment for the nation. Furthermore, he stressed that despite disruptions in maritime routes, the federal government was working tirelessly to secure necessary supplies of petrol, natural gas, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) for the impending winter season.
Written by urgent.news from Dawn - Pakistan's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
