Minister of State for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik has said the government has formally approached Qatar to provide four liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargoes to Pakistan on a priority basis, a move aimed at significantly improving electricity generation across the country.
Speaking to a private television channel on Saturday, the minister said talks are ongoing with Qatari authorities to secure immediate LNG supplies as escalating regional tensions continue to disrupt energy logistics and international shipping routes.
Long-Term Energy Partnership with Qatar
Ali Pervaiz Malik explained that Pakistan enjoys a long-standing energy partnership with Qatar and has requested that some already-loaded LNG vessels be diverted toward Pakistan.
He said the arrival of four LNG cargoes would help stabilise fuel availability, enhance power generation capacity, and ease pressure on the national electricity system.
However, he clarified that the arrangement has not yet been finalised, as several critical factors must be addressed. These include maritime security risks, insurance clearances, and logistical approvals required before the shipments can proceed.
Strait of Hormuz Concerns Impact LNG Supply
The minister noted that the regional situation remains highly fluid, particularly due to uncertainty surrounding shipping movements near the Strait of Hormuz. Disruptions in this key maritime route have affected LNG supply chains and contributed to volatility in global energy markets.
Government Exploring Multiple Fuel Options
In parallel, the government is coordinating with other partner countries under government-to-government agreements to secure reasonably priced fuel supplies.
The objective, Malik said, is to protect consumers from rising electricity costs while ensuring continuity of power generation during the ongoing period of energy uncertainty.
Officials say efforts are focused on balancing supply security with affordability as Pakistan navigates regional instability and fluctuating global energy prices.
