PM Shehbaz again rejects summary proposing increase in prices of petrol and diesel 

Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced the rejection of proposals to raise petrol and diesel prices in the country.

Addressing the nation, he said that proposals suggesting an increase of Rs95 per liter for petrol and Rs203 per liter for diesel were submitted this week, but the government promptly dismissed them.

Analysing the current situation, the premier said that petrol should currently be priced at Rs544 per liter, yet the government is providing it at Rs322 per litre. Similarly, diesel, which should cost Rs790 per liter, is being supplied at Rs335 per litre.

PM Shehbaz said that the government would bear the additional Rs56 billion cost itself, underscoring that the priority is safeguarding the economic well-being of the public.

He added that while petrol prices have doubled in many countries worldwide, Pakistan has managed to shield its citizens from the full brunt of inflation, though the government cannot tackle this challenge alone.

The premier highlighted that the government had reduced its developmental budget by Rs100 billion to ease the financial burden on ordinary citizens.

Turning to foreign policy, PM Shehbaz said that Pakistan is actively working around the clock on the diplomatic front to establish peace.

He asserted that the country is successfully managing efforts on two critical fronts and striving to prevent destructive conflicts in the region and among friendly nations.

The prime minister disclosed that he has held detailed discussions with the leaders of Iran and Gulf countries multiple times to further these efforts.

PM Shehbaz also praised the efforts of Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, noting his dedication and sincerity, and acknowledged the key role played by the Field Marshal in these initiatives.

The prime minister said that the world is currently facing an extraordinary and complex situation, and Pakistan’s diplomatic endeavors are not merely international obligations but also a moral and religious responsibility.