PM Shehbaz discusses energy sector reforms with Georgian delegation

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif Thursday held a crucial meeting with a delegation of foreign energy experts led by former Prime Minister of Georgia, Nika Gilauri, to discuss comprehensive reforms in Pakistan's power sector.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz highlighted the critical challenges currently facing Pakistan's energy sector, including circular debt, line losses, and electricity theft. He emphasized that addressing these issues is paramount for the country's economic development.

"Reforms in the energy sector are the backbone of our economic agenda," Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif asserted, underlining the government's commitment to reducing circular debt and improving electricity bill collection through policy measures.

Privatization and outsourcing of electricity distribution companies emerged as top priorities for the government, with the Prime Minister expressing a keen interest in leveraging Georgia's successful experiences in these areas.

"We aim to learn from Georgia's successful privatization and outsourcing models in the power sector," Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated, emphasizing the government's determination to adopt effective strategies for sustainable energy solutions.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister outlined plans to discourage expensive power generation sources and promote alternative energy, particularly in the solar energy sector. He emphasized the promotion of public-private partnerships to drive innovation and efficiency in the energy sector.

"We are committed to reducing the per unit rate of electricity through systematic reforms," the Prime Minister added, highlighting the government's proactive stance towards ensuring affordable and sustainable energy for all citizens.

Instructing federal ministers to collaborate closely with the delegation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the immediate formulation of a comprehensive strategy for energy sector reforms.

The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb, Federal Minister for Petroleum Mossadegh Malik, Federal Minister for Power Owais Ahmed Khan Leghari, Minister of State for Finance and Revenue Ali Parvez Malik, and other senior government officials.