Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Announces Significant Reduction in Fuel Prices
In a major relief to the masses, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a substantial reduction in fuel prices on Friday, fully passing on the benefit of declining international oil prices to the common man. The decision, aimed at easing economic burdens, includes a slash of Rs 135 per liter for diesel and Rs 12 per liter for petrol.
Details of the Fuel Price Adjustments
During his televised address to the nation, the Prime Minister explained that the government has reduced the price of diesel from Rs 520 per liter to Rs 385 per liter, while petrol has been brought down from Rs 378 per liter to Rs 366 per liter. This move is intended to keep commodity prices affordable, support the ongoing wheat crushing season, and reduce transport fares across the country.
Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that the targeted subsidy for two-wheelers and transporters, announced in coordination with provincial governments, will continue unchanged. He highlighted the government's commitment to not leaving people alone during difficult times, especially when global market prices became uncontrollable.
Rejection of Partial Benefit Proposal
The Prime Minister revealed that following the reduction in international oil prices, a proposal was presented to him to pass on only a partial benefit to the people. This was suggested to recover the Rs 129 billion spent by the government in recent weeks to cushion the impact of high oil prices.
"But I rejected the proposal without thinking for a moment because the people had shown great patience in bearing the burden of inflation," he stated. "Today, when oil prices have witnessed a downward trend, it was my political and moral responsibility to pass on the impact fully to the people."
Focus on Economic Ease and National Unity
Shehbaz Sharif stressed that easing the economic life of people is a top priority for his government. He called for national unity and hard work, stating, "Nations progress not only through government decisions but also through the discipline, hard work, unity and collective spirit of the people so therefore let us all unite and work hard day and night with patience and honesty to move forward."
Islamabad to Host US-Iran Peace Talks
In his address, the Prime Minister also highlighted a historic occasion as Islamabad prepares to host peace talks between the United States and Iran. He announced that delegations from both countries will arrive in Islamabad after accepting his request for a temporary ceasefire.
Shehbaz Sharif expressed gratitude to the leadership of Iran and the United States for this development, noting that both sides agreed to a temporary ceasefire and are coming to Islamabad for negotiations. He described hosting the talks as an honor for Pakistan and the Islamic world, thanking Almighty Allah for this opportunity.
Acknowledgments and Future Challenges
The Prime Minister paid tribute to Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and his team for their sincere and tireless hard work in facilitating the talks. He also appreciated Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and his team for playing a key role in extinguishing the flames of war and convincing the parties to negotiate.
"History will always remember the services of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir in golden words," he remarked. However, he cautioned that sustaining the ceasefire and resolving entangled issues through negotiations is a make-or-break phase.
Appeal for Prayers and Peace
Shehbaz Sharif appealed to the nation to pray for the success of the negotiations and the restoration of peace. He assured that the Pakistani leadership will make utmost efforts with sincerity to hold these talks, adding, "both countries will be present in Islamabad on Saturday and the Pakistani leadership will make its utmost effort with sincerity to hold these negotiations and the results are in the hands of Allah."
This announcement marks a significant step in addressing inflation and fostering regional stability, with the government's actions aimed at providing immediate relief to citizens while engaging in diplomatic efforts for peace.
