Azerbaijan has signaled readiness to supply liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Pakistan. The offer comes as Pakistan struggles with a growing energy shortage.
State energy company SOCAR confirmed its willingness to act quickly. It stated that supply can begin once a formal request is submitted.
“Socar is ready to provide LNG to Pakistan as soon as PLL submits a corresponding request,” the company said. This statement highlights the urgency of the situation.
Framework Agreement Enables Fast-Track Supply
A framework agreement signed in 2025 supports this potential supply. The agreement involves SOCAR Trading and Pakistan LNG Limited.
Under this arrangement, Pakistan can purchase LNG cargoes through an accelerated process. Therefore, deliveries could begin quickly once formalities are completed.
However, officials have not confirmed whether a request has already been submitted. Similarly, delivery timelines and supply sources remain unclear.
Energy Crisis Deepens Amid Global Disruptions
Pakistan relies heavily on imported gas to meet energy demands. However, domestic production continues to decline. At the same time, global LNG prices remain volatile.
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has further disrupted supply chains. As a result, Pakistan now faces increased pressure to secure alternative sources.
Hormuz Closure Disrupts Qatar LNG Supplies
The situation worsened after LNG imports from QatarEnergy were halted. This disruption followed renewed closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Pakistan State Oil had arranged four LNG cargoes under agreements with QatarEnergy. However, these shipments remain stranded due to instability in the region.
Officials confirmed that imports will remain suspended until conditions stabilize. Therefore, Pakistan must rely on alternative suppliers in the short term.
Government Seeks Immediate LNG Supplies
Authorities have already explored options to secure stranded LNG cargoes. Pakistan requested access to four shipments from a larger pool of available cargoes.
Meanwhile, officials indicated that QatarEnergy holds several loaded vessels. Pakistan aims to secure as much volume as possible once restrictions ease.
In addition, force majeure conditions declared earlier continue to affect supply. These conditions followed an attack on a key LNG facility.
Power Sector Faces Growing Pressure
The energy shortfall has direct implications for electricity generation. The Power Division requires around 400 million cubic feet of gas daily.
This supply is essential to bridge the gap and reduce loadshedding. However, the ongoing shortage has complicated these efforts. Therefore, timely LNG imports remain critical for stabilizing the energy sector.
Pakistan’s energy crisis highlights the risks of supply disruptions in global markets. Azerbaijan’s offer provides a potential lifeline during this critical period.
However, the situation depends on swift decisions and stable regional conditions. As developments continue, securing LNG supplies will remain a top priority for Pakistan.
