Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday directed relevant authorities to accelerate the privatisation process of power distribution companies (Discos), reiterating that offloading loss-making State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) remains a top government priority. Chairing a review meeting in Islamabad on the privatisation of Discos, the premier reiterated the government's focus on privatising loss-making public-sector entities, as per a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office.
First Phase of Privatisation
The prime minister was informed that three electricity distributors—Islamabad Electric Supply Company (Iesco), Gujranwala Electric Power Company (Gepco), and Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (Fesco)—would be privatised in the first phase. Expressions of interest for these three Discos have already been published in both national and international newspapers. Additionally, the Cabinet Committee on Privatisation has approved the transaction structure for the process.
"Loss-making state-owned enterprises are our priority for privatisation," the premier said, according to officials present at the meeting. He directed relevant authorities to expedite the process and ensure it is completed with full transparency.
Investor Outreach and Regulatory Framework
The meeting was informed that roadshows would be launched this month to attract investors, with international sessions also planned for potential investors from Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and China. The premier also instructed officials to establish a robust regulatory framework following the privatisation of the Discos and stressed that transparency must be maintained at every stage of the process.
Global Fund Partnership
In a separate meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz acknowledged the Global Fund as a critical partner of Pakistan in improving its healthcare system. He appreciated the Fund's significant role and contribution in improving public health in the developing world. Shehbaz met a Global Fund delegation led by Mark Edington of the Global Fund's Grant Management Division, alongside other members including Senior Portfolio Manager Izaskun Gaviria and Deputy General Counsel Natasha Heffinck.
The premier highlighted that the government is committed to eliminating the spread of TB, HIV, and malaria from the country and is making full efforts in this regard. "Your partnership is strengthening our efforts to eliminate HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria from Pakistan," the prime minister said. He also directed the formation of a joint working group between the Government of Pakistan and the Global Fund regarding the prevention of HIV virus. Officials from the Ministry of National Health apprised the delegation of the government's efforts concerning the prevention of TB, HIV, and malaria in Pakistan.
