Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the government’s commitment to providing additional relief to the poor and middle-income groups during these difficult times. He assured that these segments would not be neglected as the administration continues to navigate economic challenges.
In a meeting held on Monday to assess the impact of the Middle East situation on petroleum products, current fuel stock levels, and public relief initiatives, the prime minister highlighted the use of digital platforms to ensure that assistance reaches the common people directly and efficiently.
He detailed austerity measures including cuts in government spending and development budgets, and noted that 60 percent of official vehicles had been taken off the road to conserve resources. The prime minister also pointed out that proposals to raise fuel prices had been consistently rejected, with savings from austerity redirected to support public relief efforts.
Thanks to timely decisions, disruptions in fuel supply have been avoided despite the ongoing global crisis. Additionally, Pakistan is actively pursuing diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring peace in the region.
The meeting included a comprehensive briefing on the implementation of fuel conservation policies, future strategies, and the current stock situation. Coordination with provincial governments is underway to expedite the registration process for motorcycles and rickshaws, enabling these vehicle owners to receive prompt relief.
An audit report by the Intelligence Bureau on the enforcement of the prime minister’s fuel-saving and austerity campaign was presented, confirming strict adherence to simplicity and austerity measures.
Officials confirmed that sufficient fuel reserves are available to meet national demand, with plans in place to bolster future supplies. While levies on high-octane fuel for luxury vehicles have increased, jet fuel prices remain stable.
Furthermore, the meeting addressed the availability of adequate medicine stocks to fulfill national needs and discussed proposals for upcoming actions.
Attendees included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar; federal ministers Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Ahsan Iqbal, Dr. Musadik Malik, Ahad Khan Cheema, Syed Mustafa Kamal, Muhammad Aurangzeb, Ataullah Tarar, Ali Pervez Malik, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Rana Mubashir Iqbal, and Sardar Awais Khan Leghari; Adviser to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah; Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kiani; Special Assistants Tariq Fatemi and Talha Burki; MNAs Engineer Qamar-ul-Islam, Riaz-ul-Haq, Hafiz Muhammad Numan; along with other senior officials.
