ISLAMABAD: The federal government has opted to extend the bidding deadline for outsourcing the country’s three primary airports by an additional 60 days.
In a meeting chaired by Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, the steering committee responsible for overseeing the outsourcing process for Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad airports convened. Alongside Dar, attendees included the Minister for Planning, the Minister for Law, Justice, and Human Rights, and other pertinent officials.
During the session, the Country Director of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) provided an update, indicating positive progress in discussions with potential investors. Assurances were made that investors would receive facilitation once the newly elected government was established.
Dar was apprised of international bidders’ request for an extension to the bidding deadline. Taking into account these requests and recommendations from the IFC, the government decided to prolong the deadline by 60 days.
Expressing unwavering support for investors engaged in this flagship project, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reiterated the government’s dedication to ensuring its success.
Meanwhile, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb conveyed optimism regarding the trajectory of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) privatization, affirming that matters were progressing positively. Aurangzeb stressed the imperative for concerted efforts to fortify the nation’s economy, citing the potential of Pakistan’s IT exports to soar to $3.5 billion.
Highlighting the significance of resolving energy sector challenges and advocating for fiscal discipline within the government, Aurangzeb emphasized the pivotal role of these measures in fostering industrial growth and broader economic stability.
