Islamabad: Pakistan has reached out to Sweden and the European Union’s Green Fund for assistance in transitioning its small vehicle fleet to electric technology, aiming to secure both technical and financial support for this initiative.

According to a statement by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the proposal was put forth by Pakistan’s Minister for Power, Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, during a meeting with Swedish Ambassador Alexandra Berg Von Linde in Islamabad. The discussion centered around converting the country’s existing fossil fuel-powered motorcycles to electric vehicles. The Minister highlighted that Pakistan has over 30 million motorcycles, and many owners have a strong track record of repaying loans.

The Minister proposed that the Swedish and EU Green funds consider offering interest-free loans through Pakistani banks to facilitate this conversion. He expressed Pakistan’s commitment to promoting renewable energy, indicating that the Power Division is developing policies to make electricity both affordable and sustainable for consumers.

Ambassador Von Linde noted the eagerness of Swedish companies operating in Pakistan to ensure a reliable green energy supply. She reiterated Sweden’s readiness to provide expertise and technological support to assist Pakistan in achieving its renewable energy goals.