Government and Jamaat-e-Islami hold talks on petroleum prices

ISLAMABAD: Talks between the federal government and Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) on petroleum product prices are continuing in Islamabad as both sides discuss measures to provide relief to consumers amid rising fuel costs.

A JI delegation, led by the party’s Deputy Emir Liaquat Baloch, arrived at Punjab House to participate in the negotiations with the government.

The government’s negotiating team is being led by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal. Other members of the government delegation include Adviser to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik and Bilal Azhar Kayani.

During the latest round of talks, the government is expected to respond to the proposals and recommendations presented by JI regarding petroleum product prices.

The discussions are focused on the party’s demands concerning fuel prices and measures aimed at reducing the financial burden on the public.

JI had previously submitted a set of proposals to the government during a meeting held on September 7. The delegation, again headed by Liaquat Baloch, presented its recommendations concerning petroleum product prices and sought steps to provide relief to consumers.

The latest meeting is being held to discuss the government’s response to those proposals and explore possible areas of agreement between the two sides.

The talks come as petroleum prices remain a major concern for households, businesses and the transport sector because changes in fuel prices directly affect transportation costs and the prices of essential goods.

Both sides are expected to deliberate on the impact of petroleum prices on the public and the broader economy. The government will also consider the financial implications of any measures proposed to reduce the burden on consumers.