Before privatisation...: Pakistan seeks ADB support to strengthen Discos

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Minister for Power, Sardar Awais Leghari, emphasised the importance of securing investments from development partners to enhance the operational capacity of distribution companies (Discos) before their privatisation. Leghari said this in a meeting with a delegation from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) led by Country Director Emma Fane to discuss continued cooperation in Pakistan’s energy sector. He stated that substantial investments are crucial to prepare Discos for the privatisation process, aimed at improving efficiency and financial viability. “Prior to the privatisation of Discos, they require investment from our development partners to improve their operational capacity,” he said.

Notably, a month ago, Emma Fane was appointed as the new country director of the Bank for Pakistan. Fane highlighted that ADB is working on a comprehensive approach to enhance the capacity of Pakistan’s power sector, with a strong focus on policy guidance. Fane emphasised that the energy sector plays a pivotal role in Pakistan’s economic growth and the improvement of people’s lives. “ADB is working on projects aimed at private sector development, climate change mitigation and governance improvements in Pakistan,” Fane said.

The ADB is committed to assisting Pakistan in enhancing the sustainability, modernisation, and performance of its energy sector, Fane said. The partnership between Pakistan and ADB remains a key factor in driving progress and addressing challenges in the country’s energy infrastructure.

Leghari said, “We are building a team at PPMC [Power Planning & Monitoring Company] to provide policy leadership ensuring the right individuals are appointed for the right roles with ADB’s support,” Leghari added. Minister praised ADB’s significant role in supporting Pakistan’s energy sector, particularly in the areas of transmission infrastructure. “ADB’s investment in energy sector projects, especially in transmission infrastructure, has been invaluable,” said Leghari. Both sides have agreed to continue their collaborative efforts in future energy sector developments.