LNG import: Parliamentarian clarifies row

Under the rule, govt did not need to take any approval from the board for importing LNG, says parliamentary secretary

ISLAMABAD:

Parliamentary Secretary for Petroleum and Natural Resources Shahzadi Umarzadi Tiwana has clarified that a tripartite LNG import and re-gasification agreement was reached among Sui Northern Gas Pipe Limited (SNGPL), Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) and Pakistan State Oil (PSO), and not with Engro.

She told this to the National Assembly while responding to the call of notice moved by Dr Azra Fazal. The call was made regarding pressure exerted by the government on SNGPL and SSGC to enter into a forced tripartite LNG import and re-gasification agreement with Engro without approval of their boards in clear violation of the companies’ ordinance, rules and regulations of Ogra.

Dr Azra said that, under the rule, the government did not need to take any approval from the board for importing LNG. She asked if the government had not finalised the agreement or settled the price, then why did the LNG ship reach Karachi from Qatar? Tiwana added that the government has allowed private companies to import LNG and Pakarab Fertilizers has already started the process.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 23^rd, 2015.

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