President Asif Ali Zardari has instructed the government to take all possible steps to reduce the burden of inflation on citizens, as rising fuel prices and regional tensions continue to strain Pakistan’s economy.
The directive was issued during a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the Aiwan-e-Sadr. The session was attended by senior officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar.
According to an official statement, the president emphasized the need to ease inflationary pressures, ensure uninterrupted availability of essential goods, and provide relief to the general public. He acknowledged that difficult regional conditions, instability in parts of the Middle East, and global supply chain disruptions are adding further challenges, but stressed that the government must still prioritize public relief measures.
The meeting also reviewed the overall national and regional situation, including developments related to Afghanistan and broader geopolitical shifts. Participants paid tribute to the martyrs of last year’s conflict with India and commended the professionalism of Pakistan’s armed forces, reaffirming their commitment to national defence.
The remarks come shortly after the government increased petrol and high-speed diesel prices by Rs. 15 per litre, marking the second fuel price hike within the month. The move has raised concerns about renewed inflationary pressure, with transporters expected to increase fares and businesses anticipating higher operational costs.
High-speed diesel, widely used in transport and agriculture, is likely to raise farming expenses during the ongoing sowing season, while also increasing fertilizer and logistics costs. Petrol, commonly used in motorcycles and private vehicles, is also expected to contribute to higher household expenses.
The fuel price adjustment follows continued volatility in global oil markets, driven by tensions in the Gulf region and disruptions affecting key shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, a critical corridor for global energy supply.
