ISLAMABAD — Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik has said petroleum prices in Pakistan will come down if global oil prices decline, holding out the prospect of relief for consumers squeezed by high energy costs.
Speaking to the media, the federal minister said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would not abandon the public during difficult times, adding that the premier had already delivered relief amounting to Rs100 per litre.
Government Weighs Further Relief Measures
Malik said that if the prevailing situation continued for 10 months, the prime minister and other government officials would also contribute by reducing their privileges in order to pass on further relief to the people.
The minister’s remarks point to a government balancing fiscal pressure against public discontent over the cost of living, with fuel prices a politically sensitive issue in the country.
Minister Rules Out Bankruptcy
Malik said Pakistan would not be allowed to face bankruptcy, referring to the economic challenges the country confronted under the previous government.
His comments come as Islamabad continues to navigate a fragile economic recovery, with energy import costs remaining a central strain on the national exchequer and foreign exchange reserves.
Political Tensions Addressed
Turning to the political situation, Malik said some people were labouring under the misconception that they could march on Islamabad to secure the release of an individual. He said the state was not weak and would maintain its authority.
The minister also said that, given the prevailing circumstances, Sohail Afridi should attend the funerals of the martyrs.
