Minister of State for Petroleum Musadiq Malik has said that his visit to Russia turned out to be successful beyond his expectations and Russia is willing to sell petrol and diesel to Pakistan at discounted rates, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

While addressing a press conference in Islamabad on Monday, the minister gave details of his recent visit to Moscow, saying the reports circulated in the domestic media that Russia refused to provide petroleum products to Pakistan on cheap rates were not correct.

He described his visit to Russia and meetings there very as successful.

Musadiq said negotiations have been started with the private companies of Russia for purchase of LNG. He said they also plan to sign a long-term LNG agreement with Russia on government to government basis.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4VTMCQZEp60

Replying to a question, he said that he wants to eradicate unemployment among youth. He said that there is a need to enhance the prosperity ratio of the country if we really want to move forward. He said that the country can only be flourished if its economy is in good condition.

While talking about gas load-shedding, he said that gas will be provided to every citizen from 6am to 9am and 12pm PM to 2pm and 6pm to 9pm.

Musadik said that progress on pipeline projects including Pakistan Stream gas project was also reviewed during meetings in Moscow. He said a Russian delegation will also visit Pakistan next month to hold further deliberations on it.

He said despite depletion of our domestic gas resources, we have more gas in the winter season this year as compared to the previous year.

He said we are also ensuring provision of LPG in areas where piped gas is not available. He said Iran will provide two million pounds of LPG to Pakistan. Negotiations in this regard have been completed with Iran and the LPG will reach Pakistan in a matter of seven to ten days.

He said these steps are aimed at facilitating the public and ensuring that our industries continue to function and contribute to the national economic growth.