Pakistan Iran Gas Pipeline project: Breakthrough development reported
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Muhammad Ali, Minister for Energy, Power, and Petroleum, stated that work on the Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline has commenced. He spoke to the media after inaugurating the first Model Customer Service Centre of Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) at its Regional Office on Gurumangat Road last Friday.
The minister mentioned that there has been a 20 percent decrease in natural gas compared to the previous year. The government will strive to manage gas load-shedding during the winter, but he added that the government cannot provide gas at lower rates after purchasing it at higher prices.
Regarding Russian oil, Muhammad Ali mentioned that only one cargo had arrived on a trial basis, and the challenge was in refining it. The Pakistan Oil Refinery was only able to refine 46,000 tons of oil monthly, while the demand was much higher. The government was exploring the involvement of private refineries to meet this demand.
The minister also pointed out that taxpayers contribute only 9 percent to Pakistan's GDP, which is one of the lowest in the world. He emphasized that people would receive relief only if tax collection improves.
It's worth noting that the Pakistan Foreign Office recently stated the country's commitment to completing the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project. There were ongoing discussions to address issues related to the project between both countries, as mentioned by the FO spokesperson.
