Editor Report
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik held a meeting with Jane Marriott, the High Commissioner of the United Kingdom to Pakistan, to discuss the evolving regional situation, its implications for global energy markets, and avenues to strengthen bilateral cooperation in Pakistan’s energy and minerals sectors.During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on the regional crisis and its impact on petroleum supply chains, price volatility, and overall energy security, said a news release.The High Commissioner appreciated Pakistan’s constructive diplomatic role and thanked it for its mediation efforts aimed at easing tensions and promoting global peace, noting that Pakistan has effectively utilised its goodwill and relations with key stakeholders, including the United States and Iran.She also discussed Pakistan’s petroleum supply situation and commended the Government’s efficient handling of the supply chain, observing that, despite international uncertainty, Pakistan successfully ensured the uninterrupted availability of petroleum products and avoided market distortions.Federal Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik stated that Pakistan remains committed to supporting peace and stability through dialogue and diplomatic engagement. He emphasised that the Government is actively working to facilitate a peaceful resolution to the crisis.Speaking on domestic energy management, the Minister noted that Pakistan had taken timely measures to maintain supply continuity. “We do not want to repeat the path of populism, as witnessed in 2022, which can undo hard-earned economic achievements,” he said. He added that the Government prioritized keeping the supply chain intact, as a supply disruption would have been worse than any price shock.The Minister expressed gratitude to friendly countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman for facilitating petroleum supplies during the period of uncertainty. Recalling Qatar’s support in the past, he noted that Qatar supplied LNG to Pakistan at around $10 when global prices were near $30, and also demonstrated cooperation by renegotiating contractual arrangements.
