Federal Minister for Energy (Power Division) Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari met a high-level Spanish delegation led by the Ambassador of Spain to Pakistan, Carlos Aragon. The meeting featured detailed discussions on key issues of mutual interest, including ongoing reforms in the power sector, emerging investment opportunities, and avenues for enhancing bilateral cooperation. On the occasion, the Spanish Ambassador particularly appreciated Pakistan's positive and constructive role in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East.
Briefing the delegation on the comprehensive reforms underway in the power sector, the Federal Minister said that the government had undertaken a number of important measures over the past two years to strengthen the country's energy framework. He noted that after addressing the challenge of surplus generation capacity, the government is now moving rapidly towards the establishment of a competitive electricity market. Under this framework, electricity transactions between businesses will be facilitated through direct business-to-business arrangements. He further stated that the privatization process for three power distribution companies has been launched in the first phase of the government's privatization programme, while other companies will also be brought into the process in a phased manner.
Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari highlighted the significant investment opportunities available in the transmission network, grid digitalization, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and advanced metering infrastructure. He informed the delegation that nearly 16 million electricity meters across the country are being converted to a digital system in phases, creating attractive opportunities for both domestic and international investors.
He further announced that a dedicated programme focused on research, development, and innovation will soon be launched under the Power Planning and Monitoring Company (PPMC). The initiative will provide young professionals and experts with a platform to present innovative ideas, while feasible and impactful proposals will be recognized through special awards and incentives.
Ambassador Carlos Aragon expressed keen interest in the development of Pakistan's power sector and noted that Spanish companies possess extensive expertise in the fields of defence and digital technologies. He said that the experience and capabilities of Spanish firms could contribute meaningfully to the modernization of Pakistan's transmission and metering systems and that considerable potential exists for cooperation in these areas.
Welcoming the expertise of Spanish companies, the Federal Minister said that the Ministry's relevant technical institutions would undertake a detailed assessment of their capabilities and pursue practical avenues of cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
At the end, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close engagement aimed at improving infrastructure, promoting the exchange of information and expertise, and translating potential investment opportunities into tangible outcomes.
