ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced that petrol and diesel prices will remain unchanged, providing relief to consumers amid surging global oil costs.
In a televised address, the Prime Minister extended heartfelt Eid-ul-Fitr greetings to the nation, emphasizing that the festival symbolizes national unity, collective responsibility, and sharing joy with those around us.
Highlighting regional and global challenges, he said ongoing conflicts have shaken the world economy and threatened peace and stability. Attacks on energy installations in neighboring countries have further intensified the crisis.
He noted that international oil prices have skyrocketed, with Gulf crude rising from $72 per barrel just weeks ago to $158 per barrel today, triggering a wave of inflation. Earlier in March, a Rs55-per-litre increase in fuel prices had already strained households.
The Prime Minister said the government rejected proposals to raise petrol by Rs50 per litre and diesel by Rs74 per litre, stating that any further increase would severely impact ordinary citizens.
He stressed that protecting vulnerable populations remains the top priority, and the government is currently absorbing the financial burden itself.
Over the past two weeks, the federal government has prevented petrol prices from rising by Rs127 per litre, despite sharp increases in the global market.
Sharif urged citizens to adopt frugality in daily life and called on the elite to fulfill their responsibility as part of a nationwide campaign promoting austerity and simplicity.
He added that the government is ensuring responsible use of national resources and continually reviewing daily measures for energy conservation.
The Prime Minister concluded by calling for patience, sacrifice, and prayers for a swift resolution to the regional conflicts affecting energy security.
