PM Shehbaz Sharif Vows Relief for Vulnerable Amid Fuel Crisis Review Meeting

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing relief to vulnerable and middle-income groups, stating that they will not be left alone during challenging economic times.

He expressed these remarks while chairing a high-level meeting to review the impact of the ongoing Gulf crisis on petroleum products, existing fuel reserves in Pakistan, and measures aimed at public relief.

During the meeting, officials briefed the prime minister on the implementation of fuel conservation measures, future strategies, and the current stock position. It was highlighted that coordination with provincial governments is underway to complete the registration of motorcycle and rickshaw owners, enabling them to benefit from potential relief initiatives.

An audit report by the Intelligence Bureau was also presented, detailing progress on the government’s austerity and fuel-saving campaign.

Officials informed the meeting that adequate fuel reserves are available to meet the country’s needs, with further arrangements being made for the future. It was noted that an increase in levy on high-octane fuel—primarily used by luxury vehicles—has not affected jet fuel prices.

The prime minister emphasized that austerity measures, including cuts in government expenditures, reductions in the development budget, and the immediate withdrawal of 60% of official vehicles, were initiated to set an example during difficult times. He added that proposals to increase fuel prices had been repeatedly rejected, with savings redirected toward public relief.

Shehbaz Sharif also stressed the use of digital systems to ensure that relief measures reach the common citizen effectively.

Despite global challenges, he said, timely decisions have ensured uninterrupted fuel supply across the country. He further noted that Pakistan continues to actively engage on the diplomatic front to promote regional peace.

The meeting was attended by key cabinet members, including Ishaq Dar, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Ahsan Iqbal, Musadik Malik, and several other federal ministers, advisers, and senior officials.