Pakistan plans to import LNG from Qatar: Petroleum minister

Dr Asim Hussain tells National Assembly that price is yet to be decided between the two countries.

ISLAMABAD: Minister for Petroleum and Natural Resources Dr Asim Hussain said on Thursday that Pakistan plans to import 500 Million British Thermal Unit (mmbtu) LNG from Qatar to meet its energy requirements.

Hussain told the National Assembly during the question hour that an agreement to this effect has been signed with Qatar and added that the price of LNG is yet to be decided between the two countries.

However, he said, that the price will be in accordance with the prevailing international prices in the region.

The minister expressed with confidence that the supply of LNG from Qatar will be started within one and a half year.

Pakistan had signed a memorandum of understanding with Qatar in February for import of 500 mmcfd of LNG to generate 2,500 megawatts (MW) electricity.

Earlier this month, an official stated that Qatar has demanded for a hefty amount of $18 per mmbtu for LNG import to Pakistan.