LAHORE, August 9, 2026: Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik has acknowledged that petrol remains expensive in Pakistan but said the government has ensured uninterrupted fuel supplies despite regional tensions and economic pressures.
Speaking at an event in Lahore, Malik said the government had made every possible effort, despite limited resources, to provide relief to consumers and keep petroleum prices under control.
“Petrol is still expensive, but we have not allowed a shortage to occur anywhere,” the petroleum minister said.
He contrasted Pakistan’s fuel situation with conditions in neighbouring countries, claiming that consumers in some places were being required to show identification cards and were restricted to purchasing only two litres of petrol.
Turkish Petroleum to Begin Offshore Drilling in Pakistan
In a significant development for Pakistan’s energy sector, Malik also announced that Turkish Petroleum is preparing to undertake offshore drilling in Pakistani waters.
He said the exploration activity would be followed by major investment, potentially providing fresh momentum to Pakistan’s efforts to develop domestic oil and gas resources and reduce its dependence on imported energy.
The minister, however, did not provide a specific timeline for the start of drilling or details regarding the expected investment.
Minister Highlights Economic Challenges
Malik said Pakistan had faced considerable economic challenges during the Iran-US war, but maintained that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government had taken difficult decisions to keep the country moving towards economic progress.
He said that after navigating recent challenges, Pakistan’s next objective was to achieve greater success on the economic front.
The minister also praised Pakistan’s armed forces, saying their professional capabilities and expertise were recognised internationally.
Makkah Agreement a Source of Pride, Says Malik
Referring to the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, Malik described the development as a source of pride for the country.
He said Saudi Arabia’s economic strength, Türkiye’s development and Pakistan’s defence capabilities could play an important role in regional cooperation.
Malik also said the PML-N believed in practical politics and credited former prime minister Nawaz Sharif with making Pakistan a nuclear power.
Also Read: Rotten Fruits and Vegetables Allegedly Sold at Gilani Mart’s DC Counter in Soan Garden
Today's E-Paper