Lahore: Federal Minister for Privatization, Board of Investment and Communications Abdul Aleem Khan articulated a robust vision for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), asserting it as a valuable national asset that could still be profitable through improved policies and investments. He invited provincial participation in the airline’s privatization process and detailed his contributions to enhancing revenue in other sectors.

According to Press Information Department, Minister Khan, during a press conference, emphasized that the structure for PIA’s privatization had been established prior to his tenure and that his role was confined within these pre-set parameters. He underscored his commitment to following through with the privatization under the stringent guidelines of his office, despite criticisms and the complex history of the airline’s management.

Minister Khan also highlighted his successful tenure as Minister of Communications, where he claimed to have boosted revenue by 50 billion rupees without public funds for promotion, reflecting his dedication to national interests over political gains. Additionally, he noted his decisions in the Pakistan Post Department, which included the elimination of 3500 posts to save 2.8 billion rupees annually for the government.

The privatization strategy for PIA includes options like clearing the airline’s 200 billion rupees liabilities to offer it as a “Clean PIA” to potential investors. He assured that the privatization process was transparent, occurring under the scrutiny of media cameras and without personal financial benefits to himself, highlighting his accountability and the austerity he practiced in his official capacity.

In conclusion, the minister expressed optimism about future investments and improvements in his departments, predicting substantial growth in annual revenue and asserting the strategic importance of maintaining PIA for direct international flights vital for millions of Pakistanis.