ISLAMABAD: The government has decided to conduct a feasibility study on exporting electricity to China, involving the Chinese firm M/s Three Gorges, according to sources from the Power Division. This decision was made during a meeting led by Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, to finalize strategies for the upcoming high-level visit to Russia.
The meeting, which included discussions on various bilateral issues, emphasized the importance of enhancing connectivity and security for transport routes. The Ministry of Railways highlighted three key rail routes to improve trade links with Russia and Central Asia. The Minister for Planning also highlighted potential opportunities to increase exports to Russia and discussed possible trade mechanisms, including barter trade.
The Minister for Petroleum expressed concerns that the benefits of cheaper Russian oil have not reached the general public and suggested urging government refineries to use Russian oil. The forum also discussed the need for a comprehensive plan for energy cooperation with Russia and the importance of developing an integrated framework for road and rail connectivity with China, Russia, and Central Asia.
The Power Division was directed to conduct a feasibility study on the economics of transmission lines for exporting electricity to China, and the Ministry of Water Resources/WAPDA was urged to explore funding options for ongoing hydel projects by forming a consortium and seeking Russian investment.
Story by Mushtaq Ghumman
