Energy requirements managed till November, Finance Minister

Attacks on energy installations in Gulf concerning, not giving funds to military business enterprises

Islamabad: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has said that Pakistan has so far managed to cope with initial effects of rising global energy prices due to Iran war, however attacks on energy infrastructure in Gulf countries are cause of concern for national economy.

In interview to French news agency, he said that neither fuel shortage occurred in country, nor queues formed at petrol pumps and nor did law and order situation arise as seen in some other countries.

Pakistan has managed energy requirements till November and now planning is being done for winter months, government's reform agenda is facing resistance from industries, some groups and vested interests.

He said that commercial enterprises being run by army are profitable, we are not providing them any funds from national exchequer.

Finance Minister held meetings with IMF Director for Middle East and Central Asia Jihad Azour, UNDP Administrator and UN Under-Secretary General Alexander De Croo, international credit rating agency JP Morgan, Sharjah Islamic Bank, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank and Ajman Bank delegations including other important personalities on occasion of annual meetings of IMF and World Bank in Bangkok.

In meeting held with Director IMF, economic performance and reforms were discussed while progress regarding revenues, inflation, economic growth and current account was reviewed.