Petroleum minister meets US chargé d’affaires, agrees to expand energy cooperation

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik met US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker on Monday. They discussed ways to expand bilateral cooperation in the energy sector.

The petroleum minister briefed her on the steps taken to ensure energy security in the changing geopolitical situation. He said the conflict in the Middle East had created difficulties in the availability of fuel. In view of this, precautionary measures were taken to ensure uninterrupted supply.

Natalie Baker praised Pakistan for managing fuel supplies effectively. She said that, despite the regional situation, the country had not faced a fuel shortage.

According to Ali Pervaiz Malik, the refinery upgrade programme could offer investment opportunities to US financial institutions. Contacts between teams from the two countries are continuing.

Baker expressed the wish for close cooperation on Pakistan’s energy needs. She stressed the importance of creating opportunities for US companies. She also voiced hope for long-term energy supply agreements, which, she said, would benefit both sides.

The managing directors of Pakistan State Oil and Pakistan LNG Limited informed the participants about the interest of US companies in supplying LNG to Pakistan.

The petroleum minister also invited US companies to take part in the upcoming Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum. He appreciated US cooperation. He said strong bilateral ties would promote energy cooperation and Pakistan’s long-term energy security.