POLITICS & POLICY MAKING
PM Shahbaz Sharif announces no increase in petrol, diesel prices; government to absorb Rs 56 billion burden
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Friday announced that the government will maintain existing petrol and diesel prices, rejecting proposals that would have seen sharp increases.
In a nationwide address, the Prime Minister said he had been presented with a proposal to raise petrol prices by Rs 95 per litre and diesel by Rs 203 per litre, which he has rejected to protect the economic security of the people.
“This week, the federal government will bear an additional burden of Rs 56 billion to prevent inflation from hitting consumers,” he added.
According to PM Sharif, petrol prices should have been Rs 544 per litre in today’s market, but the government is providing it at Rs 322 per litre. Similarly, diesel should have been Rs 790 per litre, but the government is keeping it at Rs 335 per litre.
Shielding the public from inflation
The Prime Minister emphasised that rising global fuel prices have doubled, yet Pakistan has managed to shield citizens from this “storm of inflation.” He said the government’s priority remains the economic security of ordinary Pakistanis.
Diplomatic efforts for regional peace
PM Sharif also highlighted Pakistan’s active diplomatic engagement to prevent further conflict in the region. “We are working day and night to save the region and friendly countries from a devastating war,” he said.
He noted his extensive discussions with leaders of Iran and Gulf nations, describing Pakistan’s mediation efforts as both an international responsibility and a religious duty.
The Prime Minister praised the contributions of Ishaq Dar for his dedication, and Field Marshal Asim Munir for playing a key role in supporting Pakistan’s regional peace efforts.
PM Sharif reiterated that the government remains committed to protecting citizens from external economic shocks while actively promoting stability in the region.