Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik has stated that the country’s leadership is considering a proposal to close markets early, indicating a possible shift in business operating hours.
He explained that if the proposal is implemented, wedding halls and restaurants will be allowed to remain open until 10 PM, while other commercial activities may be required to shut earlier.
Ali Pervaiz Malik further said that the Finance Minister will travel abroad next week for meetings with the IMF and the World Bank, where he will brief these institutions on the current economic situation and the potential financial challenges ahead. He emphasized that the government may need to review the entire economic framework in light of these developments.
He added that the United Arab Emirates had deposited $3.5 billion in Pakistan during a difficult period, and if the funds are now requested back, the government has made all necessary arrangements for repayment.
The minister also noted that following the suspension of gas supply from Qatar, immediate steps have been taken to start supplying 400 to 500 MMCFD of gas from local fields to meet energy demands.
