PM urges Chinese firms to embrace local coal

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment to the safety of Chinese workers in Pakistan during a meeting with a delegation from the Shanghai Electric Group, led by Chairman Wu Lei.

He assured them of all necessary support to facilitate Chinese investors in expanding ongoing projects. Emphasizing the shift to local coal, he urged Chinese firms to transition power plants and increase investment in coal mining.

During the briefing on projects, the prime minister was apprised of the Shanghai Electric Group's involvement in the development of Thar Coal mines and a 1320MW coal power project.

The group's significant contributions to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor were acknowledged, with particular mention of the Thar Coal projects, which were estimated to save approximately $400 million annually.

He urged Chinese firms to switch power plants from the imported to the local coal and increase their investment in the coal mining sector.

The meeting was attended by the Chairman of Thar Coal Block 1 Power Generation Company Meng Donghai, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, Energy Minister Sardar Awais Khan Leghari, Petroleum Minister Dr Musaddik Malik, Deputy Chairman of Planning Commission Muhammad Jahanzeb and relevant senior officers.