Federal Minister for Energy Sardar Owais Ahmed Khan met with a delegation from the World Bank led by Pankaj Gupta, Regional Director for Infrastructure in Islamabad, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
Pankaj Gupta told the minister that the World Bank has been supporting Pakistan’s energy sector since 1995. He said Pakistan has great potential in hydropower through the Indus River.
The Energy Minister welcomed the delegation and thanked the World Bank for its long-time support. He said Pakistan is facing serious energy challenges and needs strong decisions to provide low-cost and sustainable electricity in the future. He also said the government is focusing on public-private partnerships to attract investment and technical support.
The Minister added that electricity prices were a big issue when the current government came into power. He said the Prime Minister guided the team to reduce the use of expensive fuel. The government is now working to improve electricity distribution and reviewing solar energy policies.
During the meeting, they talked about energy reforms, privatization of power companies, and long-term partnerships to improve Pakistan’s energy sector. He mentioned successful projects in Ghazi Barotha and Tarbela. He also said the World Bank will continue its support.
He also said the Bank wants to work with Pakistan to plan energy projects for the next 10 years. He stressed the importance of choosing the right projects, using proper planning tools, and making sure people can afford electricity.
At the end of the meeting, both sides agreed to make a joint plan with NTDC (National Transmission and Despatch Company) to support long-term energy reforms and investment in Pakistan.