Islamabad, Pakistan – Web Desk:
Pakistan’s leadership is considering a proposal to enforce early market closures as part of broader measures to manage economic pressures and energy challenges, Federal Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said.
Speaking on a television program hosted by Shahzeb Khanzada, Malik stated that under the proposed plan, commercial markets could be required to shut earlier, while wedding halls and restaurants would be allowed to operate until 10:00 PM if the policy is implemented.
The minister also confirmed that Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb is scheduled to travel abroad next week to hold meetings with the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. During these discussions, Pakistan is expected to brief lenders on the scale of the economic challenges it is currently facing.
Malik noted that the government may need to reassess its overall economic framework in light of emerging pressures. He added that the United Arab Emirates had previously supported Pakistan by placing deposits worth $3.5 billion, and arrangements are in place should any repayment requests be made.
Addressing energy concerns, the minister said that following a disruption in gas supplies from Qatar, Pakistan has ramped up domestic production, adding between 400 to 500 million cubic feet per day (MMCFD) from local gas fields to stabilize supply.
The proposed measures highlight Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to manage its economic and energy challenges amid a complex regional and global environment.
