Political adventurism cannot hinder progress, says Khawaja Asif

ISLAMABAD: Minister for Water and Power Khawaja Asif Monday said no political adventurism could hinder the momentum of progress initiated by the PML-N government under the leadership of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

He said the PML-N government was working on producing cheap and extra electricity, adding that power load-shedding would be eliminated the 2017-end. Talking to media persons on the sidelines of Energy Investment Conference, he regretted that certain elements for their vested interests wanted to create hurdles in the way of development but vowed that they would not succeed in their designs. “Our efforts are aimed at making the country self-reliant in energy, completing the China Pakistan Economic Corridor project and creating job opportunities for the youth.”

Responding to a question the Minister said the government is encouraging investment in power projects that use the indigenous coal. He said Thar coal will bring prosperity in the entire country and both local and foreign companies are showing interest in the exploitation of this rich resource. Earlier, Kh Asif, addressing the conference, said Pakistan’s energy sector offered attractive rates of return on investment, asking the foreign investors to take advantage of the investment opportunities.