PM Shehbaz reviews impact of Gulf crisis on fuel, domestic reserves

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday chaired a high-level meeting to review the impact of the ongoing Gulf crisis on petroleum products, assess Pakistan’s existing fuel reserves and review ongoing public assistance measures, according to a press release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).

He highlighted the government’s commitment to providing assistance to low- and middle-income citizens. “In this difficult time, we will not leave economically vulnerable segments alone,” he said.

The officials briefed the Prime Minister on coordinated efforts with provincial governments to expedite property registration of motorcycle and rickshaw owners, thereby ensuring that they can benefit from the relief packages, the statement said.

The meeting also reviewed austerity measures already implemented under the Prime Minister’s “Save and Simplicity” campaign, including cuts in public spending, reductions in the development budget and the immediate suspension of 60% of government vehicles. “The process of sacrifice began with cuts in public spending,” the Prime Minister added.

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Prime Minister Shehbaz also pointed out that proposals to increase fuel prices had been repeatedly rejected and savings from austerity measures had been redirected to public assistance. “By leveraging digital systems, relief measures will reach ordinary citizens effectively,” he added.

The officials informed the Prime Minister that despite the global crisis, timely decisions taken by the government had ensured uninterrupted supply of fuel. The meeting also reviewed the ongoing efforts on the diplomatic front with Pakistan playing a proactive role in promoting peace in the region.

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The PM received a detailed briefing on the implementation of fuel saving measures, future planning and current fuel stock. An Intelligence Bureau audit report confirmed compliance with the Prime Minister’s austerity and simplicity campaign.

The briefing highlighted that sufficient fuel reserves are available to meet national needs and arrangements are being made to meet future needs. It was noted that the increase in taxes on high-octane fuel used by luxury vehicles did not affect the cost of jet fuel.

Likewise, sufficient stocks of essential medicines are available in the country. Proposals for future action plans were also presented during the session, the press release concluded.

Prime Minister Shehbaz further noted that Pakistan was making “vigorous diplomatic efforts” on the international front to promote regional peace.