Minister emphasized new oil & gas explorations
By Uzma Babar

ISLAMABAD—Federal Minister for Petroleum and Natural Resources Khawaja Muhammad Asif has directed the Ministry to expedite the Oil and Gas exploration in the country to meet the challenges of soaring International oil prices and reduction of oil import bill.
Federal Minister expressed these views while taking a briefing from the senior official of the Ministry of Petroleum.
Secretary Petroleum and Natural Resources Mr. Farrakh Qayum briefed the Minister about organization, functions and on-going projects of the Ministry.
The Minister was pleased to know that Pakistan has a high success rate with regard to Oil and Gas exploration.
The Minister also took note of the huge potential of development of mineral wealth i.e. coal and copper. He took special interest in all the projects aimed at developing mineral in the Country.
The Minster said that the energy is the life line of the economy and stated that Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Resources would make consorted efforts for the development of energy resources in the Country.
The Minister welcomed the indication that Indian Petroleum Minister would likely to visit Pakistan to discuss matters of mutual interest.
The meeting was also attended by Addl. Secy (P&NR), DG (Mineral), DG (Oil), DG (Gas), DG (Admin), DG (Hydro carbon Development), MD Inter State Gas System and other officials of the Ministry.