Karachi: The Pakistani government has successfully maintained the availability of petroleum products in the country, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb announced during a televised address on the nation’s economy. Speaking alongside Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, Aurangzeb highlighted the country’s stable economic outlook, projecting a GDP growth of four percent this year.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Finance Minister reported a 14 percent increase in exports, with remittances reaching $3.8 billion in March and $3.5 billion in April. He also noted that Roshan Digital Accounts saw an inflow of $260 million in March, rising to $320 million in April. Despite these gains, the import bill increased by over a billion dollars between March and April.

Aurangzeb emphasized the efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar, and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir in working towards regional peace. Meanwhile, Petroleum Minister Malik reassured the public of the government’s dedication to providing relief in the upcoming budget, crediting the Saudi government for supporting Pakistan with crude oil supplies. Malik also expressed gratitude towards Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Iran for their assistance.

The Petroleum Minister outlined plans to purchase low-cost LNG from allied nations to address the anticipated rise in electricity demand over the summer, ensuring the public remains unaffected by the energy needs. Despite limited resources, the government has provided substantial subsidies to farmers, transporters, and on petroleum products, Malik stated.