Islamabad: A meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Economic Affairs Division was held under the Acting Chairmanship of Dr. Mirza Ikhtiar Baig, MNA, where the focus was on ongoing and proposed energy and power sector projects, as well as the country’s economic targets. According to National Assembly of Pakistan, 40 ongoing transmission projects are being supported by international development partners through 17 loan agreements, with 52% of the funds disbursed so far. These projects aim to strengthen the nation’s power transmission network.

The Committee learned of 38 proposed projects anticipated to be completed by 2036, with ongoing projects expected to conclude between November 2026 and December 2028. Challenges affecting project timelines were highlighted, including delays in rupee cover allocation, approvals, and right-of-way issues, notably impacting the Tarbela 5th Extension Project and Jauharabad. Coordination challenges with district administrations and security concerns in areas like Zhob were also discussed.

The Committee noted the introduction of BEST-PAK Phase-I and STATCOM technology to improve the power system’s stability and capacity. In terms of economic initiatives, the Committee was briefed on efforts to reduce foreign borrowing by enhancing exports and diversifying markets, with an export target of US$ 63 billion set for 2028-29. The country’s trade deficit, remittances, and various policy measures to boost exports, such as enhancing export financing and securing market access, were discussed.

The Committee emphasized the need for effective implementation and monitoring of these initiatives to achieve export targets and reduce reliance on external borrowing. The meeting was attended by several MNAs and officials from the Ministry of Economic Affairs.