ISLAMABAD: A high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif was held today to review the implementation of measures concerning petroleum products, energy conservation, and austerity. The meeting focused on the execution of decisions aimed at fostering economic stability amid current regional tensions.

According to Radio Pakistan, participants were briefed on arrangements for the early closure of markets and shopping malls at 8:00 p.m. in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Islamabad. The Prime Minister encouraged active national participation in the campaign for petroleum conservation and austerity, emphasizing that hoarding of petroleum products would not be tolerated and would result in strict legal consequences.

The Prime Minister highlighted the significant reliance of the country’s electricity generation on petroleum products, noting that early market closures and other austerity measures aim to conserve foreign exchange and ensure uninterrupted electricity supply. Discussions with the Sindh government regarding similar closures are ongoing.

Moreover, it was reported that provincial governments are submitting data on individuals eligible for petroleum subsidies, with payments being processed through a transparent digital system. Subsidies for cargo vehicles, buses, and trucks have been consistently provided since the 4th of this month in collaboration with the Ministry of IT and the State Bank of Pakistan.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, various federal ministers, the Governor of the State Bank, Chief Secretaries from all four provinces, and other senior officials.