PM Shehbaz analyzes impact of Gulf crisis on fuel and 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 existing fuel reserves in Pakistan and examine ongoing public relief measures, according to a press release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).

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

The officials briefed the prime minister on coordinated efforts with provincial governments to expedite ownership registration of motorcycle and rickshaw owners, ensuring that they can benefit from relief programmes, the statement said.

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

Read: The government calls the notification about the “weekend blockade” false

Prime Minister Shehbaz also highlighted that proposals to increase fuel prices had been repeatedly rejected and that savings made from austerity measures had been redirected towards public aid. “By leveraging digital systems, relief measures will effectively reach the common citizen,” he added.

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

Read more: Traders call for permanent austerity measures to face crises

The Prime Minister received detailed information 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 adequate fuel reserves are available to meet national needs and that provisions are being made for future needs. It was noted that tax increases on high-octane fuel used by luxury vehicles have not affected the cost of jet fuel.

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

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