The LNG affair

This refers to the article, ‘The LNG affair’ (February 8) by Dr Farrukh Saleem. The writer has raised very important questions with regard to the import of LNG for use in power generation, industry and domestic consumption. The writer is absolutely correct in his facts.
It is true that in view of a drastic drop in the crude oil price, climatic changes and the replacement of the cheap oil with LNG, the world supply and demand scenario is changing and LNG exporting countries are reducing its price. Because of this, LNG is emerging as the cheapest source of energy and power generation. Countries like Australia and Canada are still processing LNG and exporting it at a much lower price than the one Pakistan is negotiating – $12 mmBtu as against $6 mmBtu – internationally. The deal is being kept secret from the public that is undermining the credibility of the process. It will be in everybody’s interest to rectify the situation before it is too late.
Zaheer Ahmed
Islamabad