PM orders proactive steps to strengthen petroleum import supply chain

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday directed Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik to take proactive steps to strengthen the country’s petroleum import supply chain amid ongoing regional uncertainties affecting energy markets.

Chairing a high-level meeting on fuel conservation and economic measures, the Prime Minister also directed all relevant institutions to remain prepared for emergency interventions until conditions stabilise.

The meeting was given a detailed briefing on the progress of government initiatives aimed at promoting economic efficiency and resource conservation.

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Officials said that the Prime Minister’s directives, which he had issued last week when announcing the austerity measures, are being fully implemented.

They added that the Intelligence Bureau (IB), tasked by the Prime Minister with overseeing the implementation of the government’s national austerity plan, will submit a comprehensive monitoring report on the execution of these measures.

“All situations are being closely monitored, and records of petroleum products are being maintained to ensure the immediate detection of any irregularities,” officials said, emphasising that the country currently holds sufficient petroleum reserves to meet national requirements.

In addition to energy concerns, the meeting reviewed other critical resources particularly the availability of medicines in the country. Officials confirmed that adequate stocks of medicines are available nationwide, ensuring healthcare needs continue to be met despite external pressures.

They said that Ministry of Information Technology and Telecom has established special connectivity arrangements to facilitate e-office operations, allowing government staff to work effectively from home.

Officials further confirmed that all cabinet members have voluntarily forgone their salaries as a gesture of solidarity with the masses.

The Prime Minister welcomed early signs of success in reducing fuel consumption within government departments, noting that these measures will help ease the burden on masses during the current challenging circumstances.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema, Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister of Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik, Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar, Federal Minister for Climate Change Musadik Malik, Federal Minister for IT & Telecom Shaza Fatima, Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kiani, Governor State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Jameel Ahmed, and other senior government officials.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026