LAHORE, September 27 — Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik has said the government will pass on the benefit to consumers as soon as oil prices begin declining in the international market, acknowledging the financial pressure high fuel prices are placing on the public.
Speaking at an event in Lahore, Malik said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was aware of the difficulties faced by consumers and was committed to providing relief when global market conditions allowed.
He said international petroleum prices had risen sharply, increasing pressure on domestic fuel prices and household budgets.
Over six million register for fuel relief
The petroleum minister said more than six million people had registered their motorcycles and vehicles under the government’s fuel relief mechanism.
He said a large number of beneficiaries owned motorcycles that were around 20 years old, highlighting the dependence of lower-income households on affordable fuel.
Malik said the government would continue supporting consumers during the difficult period and was prepared to commit substantial budgetary resources if necessary.
“If this system has to be continued for 10 months, the government will cut Rs400 billion to Rs500 billion from its budget and spend it on the people,” he said.
He maintained that the prime minister understood the financial difficulties facing citizens and that the government would not step back from providing relief.
Malik urges political focus amid security challenges
Turning to the political situation, Malik said national interests should take precedence over political considerations.
He said the state was strong enough to protect its authority and warned against attempts to use political confrontation to secure the release of individuals.
The minister also referred to recent violence in Dera Ismail Khan, Bannu and other areas, expressing grief over the loss of lives.
He urged political leaders to focus on their responsibilities amid the security situation and said the country could not afford further political confrontation at a time of heightened challenges.
Malik offered prayers for those who had lost their lives in recent terrorist attacks.