PM announces reopening of new gas connections to domestic consumers

Shehbaz to lead Pakistan’s delegation at FII9 in Riyadh

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Sunday the reopening of new gas connections after a ban of nearly four years, state broadcaster Radio Pakistan reported.

His announcement comes less than two months after the federal cabinet decided in September to lift the ban on domestic gas connections and supply regasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG).

Speaking about the cabinet’s decision in a post-meeting press conference, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, flanked by Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, had said PM Shehbaz decided to lift the ban on new gas connections imposed in 2021, addressing a longstanding public demand.

Addressing a ceremony related to the resumption of RLNG connections in Islamabad today, the premier reiterated that the government’s decision was in response to the “long-standing public demand”.

“In 2022, there was immense public pressure for [new] gas connections but the government was facing challenges,” he added. But, “with this landmark decision, the public will now be able to access affordable and quality fuel,” he added.

“Now, RLNG will be supplied throughout the country to a large number of applicants,” a report by state-run APP quoted him as saying.

According to the reports, a video message by Malik was also played during today’s ceremony, in which the petroleum minister said the government was committed to providing maximum facilities to the public.

He added that the Sui Northern Gas Company had brought down its line losses to 4.93 per cent while earning a profit of Rs29 billion in the previous fiscal year.

Meanwhile,: At the invitation of Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif will lead a high-level delegation to Riyadh from 27 to 29 October to participate in the Ninth Edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII9).

The delegation will include Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, as well as senior cabinet ministers.

The FII9 will convene global leaders, investors, policymakers, and innovators to explore the theme “The Key to Prosperity: Unlocking New Frontiers of Growth.”

Thematic discussions will address global challenges and opportunities, focusing on key topics such as innovation, sustainability, economic inclusion, and geopolitical shifts.

“During his stay, the Prime Minister will engage with the Saudi leadership to explore avenues for enhanced cooperation in the trade, investment, energy, and human resource sectors. The discussions will also cover regional and global issues of mutual interest and concern,” Foreign Office Spokesperson, on Sunday, said in a press statement.

On the sidelines of FII9, the prime minister will also interact with leaders from other participating countries and heads of international organisations.

These exchanges will highlight Pakistan’s investment potential and its readiness to pursue collaborations in sustainable development, in line with the “Think, Exchange, and Act” model.

“This visit underscores Pakistan’s commitment to advancing economic diplomacy and fostering strategic partnerships in investment, technology, and sustainable development,” it was further added. APP