PM says exports to Gulf continue despite regional tensions

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistani exports to Gulf states have continued despite recent tensions and challenges, adding that successful diplomacy has ensured the steady flow of shipments.

An important meeting chaired by the prime minister reviewed long-term power planning and progress on national exports. He said disruptions in oil supply arose owing to the tense regional situation; however, no energy crisis emerged due to an appropriate share of renewable energy. He directed that work on the battery energy storage system be accelerated and a comprehensive plan prepared to expand renewable energy sources.

The prime minister received a briefing on the long-term framework for electricity generation and on opportunities and challenges for exports. Renewable sources account for 55 per cent of total power generation, while 45 per cent comes from fossil fuels. A plan is in place to raise the share of renewable energy to 90 per cent over the next decade, with fossil fuels reduced to 10 per cent.

The meeting was also informed that demand for Pakistani agricultural commodities in Gulf countries continues to rise, while export supply has been maintained through effective diplomacy. The prime minister directed the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation to arrange additional vessels to increase seaborne exports.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, along with federal ministers including Ahsan Iqbal, Rana Tanveer Hussain, Jam Kamal Khan, Musadik Malik, Ahad Cheema, Muhammad Aurangzeb, Attaullah Tarar, Ali Pervaiz Malik, Sardar Awais Leghari, Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani and Haroon Akhtar, attended the meeting.