Asad Umar directs Maritime Division to accelerate work on LNG terminal

ISLAMABAD: Keeping in view the increasing demand of gas in the country, Finance Minister Asad Umar on Wednesday directed the Maritime Division to expedite the process for establishment of new LNG terminal.

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) here in Islamabad today.

On a proposal of Petroleum Division regarding arrangements of additional 200 MMCFD of LNG from Qatar, the committee directed Petroleum Division to carry out a comprehensive demand and supply analysis of LNG in the country, in consultation with stakeholders and submit a summary to the cabinet in this regard.

According to a statement released from the ministry, Maritime Affairs Division briefed ECC about the progress on new LNG terminal.

On the issue of the submission of Pakistan Steels’ revival business plan, ECC directed the Ministry of Industries to submit its proposals within the next fortnight. The committee also accorded approval to the proposal of National Counter Terrorism Authority by granting it technical supplementary grant of Rs133.156 million.

On a summary of the Petroleum Division, the ECC approved gas supply to Tall and adjacent areas of district Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The ECC also approved a proposal of Federal Board of Revenue to waive the accumulated penal surcharges of Rs700 million off against overstayed consignments at ports.

The decision will enable importers to clear their overstayed cargoes and would also help reducing congestion at ports and bonded warehouses.

The Commerce Division gave a presentation about the significance of establishment of an Independent Insurance Regulator. The ECC directed the Commerce Division to expedite the findings of the commission, already formed on the subject, for making informed decision.