Islamabad, Pakistan – Web Desk: President Asif Ali Zardari has rejected proposals to increase petroleum prices, directing authorities to minimize the financial burden on the public amid rising regional tensions.
The decision was made during a high-level consultative meeting chaired by the president, focusing on the economy, energy security, and the evolving situation in the Middle East. Officials reviewed diplomatic efforts and regional developments, with Ishaq Dar briefing participants on engagements with Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.
According to an official statement, the government also approved austerity measures, including reducing public expenditure and grounding up to 60% of official vehicles. The president emphasized the need for coordinated economic, energy, and security policies, along with a nationwide fuel conservation campaign and promotion of public transport.
Zardari stressed that vulnerable segments of society must be protected during the current economic challenges, calling for strict monitoring of essential commodity prices and ensuring their availability.
He also directed authorities to address pressures on oil and gas supply chains and rising energy costs. The meeting was attended by senior federal and provincial leadership, including the prime minister, chief ministers, and key officials from Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, who briefed on measures to control inflation and ensure supply stability.
