ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has called for a collaborative approach to address Pakistan’s rising energy costs.
He proposed that the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) form a committee to work with his office in developing a viable solution for paying capacity charges to Independent Power Producers (IPPs).
The President made these remarks during a meeting with a delegation from FPCCI, which included businessmen and representatives from 40 regional business associations, led by Dr. Gohar Ejaz, at Aiwan-e-Sadr.
In his address to the delegation, President Zardari emphasized the importance of finding a win-win solution that benefits the government, the public, the business community, and IPPs.
He highlighted the need for a consensus-driven approach to ensure that no stakeholder is disadvantaged. The President acknowledged the challenges faced by Pakistani businesses, describing them as being in a “triple-whammy” due to high input, energy, and fuel costs.
The FPCCI President Dr. Gohar Ejaz underscored that the soaring energy costs are significantly impacting individuals, industries, agriculture, and the export sector. He called for energy sector reforms to reduce energy prices.
Ejaz also requested the President’s intervention to address the issues caused by high electricity prices affecting Pakistan’s industries and businesses.
President Zardari assured the delegation of his support in resolving these issues and pledged to engage with relevant parties to find a solution.
