ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is exploring the possibility of importing coal from Kyrgyzstan for power generation, a temporary measure until power plants can transition to Thar coal, according to sources from Business Recorder.
The Ambassador of Pakistan to Kyrgyz Republic recently met with Talaibek Baigaziev, Kyrgyz Deputy Minister of Energy, to discuss potential energy cooperation between the two countries. During the meeting, Baigaziev expressed satisfaction with the resumption of the CASA-1000 project, anticipating its completion by the end of 2026. He also mentioned the Kyrgyz Energy Minister’s interest in a phone call with Pakistan’s Minister for Power, Sardar Awais Khan Leghari.
Key points for the proposed discussion include:
Coal Supply: Kyrgyzstan potentially supplying coal to Pakistan.
Electricity Exchange: Pakistan providing electricity to Kyrgyzstan during winter via the CASA-1000 network.
During the 46th session of the Pakistan-Kyrgyz Republic Joint Ministerial Commission, the then caretaker Energy Minister Muhammad Ali discussed importing Kyrgyz coal with the Kyrgyz Deputy Minister of Energy. Additionally, Pakistan proposed supplying electricity to Kyrgyzstan in winter through CASA-1000.
A Joint Working Group has been established to further explore these initiatives, with Kyrgyzstan requesting details on Pakistan’s representation in the group.
This move signifies Pakistan’s efforts to diversify its energy sources and ensure a steady power supply during the transition to domestic coal.
Story by Mushtaq Ghumman
