ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday directed the relevant authorities to expedite the privatisation of electricity distribution companies (Discos), emphasising that reducing the number of loss-making state-owned enterprises (SOEs) remains a government priority.

Presiding over a review meeting, the prime minister instructed officials to ensure complete transparency in the privatisation process and establish a robust regulatory framework following the transition of Discos to the private sector.

During the briefing on the progress regarding the privatisation of Discos, it was told that in the first phase, Islamabad Electric Supply Company (Iesco), Gujranwala Electric Power Company (Gepco), and Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (Fesco) would be privatised as the expressions of interest (EoIs) for the purpose had already been invited.

It was informed that the Cabinet Committee on Privatisation had approved the transaction structure regarding the privatisation of the said three Discos.

The international roadshows are being organised starting this month to attract investors from Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and China.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, federal ministers Azam Nazeer Tarar, Ahad Khan Cheema, Muhammad Aurangzeb, and Sardar Awais Leghari, Adviser to the Prime Minister Muhammad Ali, Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani, and relevant senior government officials.

Global Fund

In a separate meeting, the premier acknowledged the Global Fund as a critical partner of Pakistan in improving its healthcare system and appreciated the fund’s significant role and contributions to public health in the developing world.

A delegation led by Mark Edington of the Global Fund’s Grant Management Division alongside other members including Senior Portfolio Manager Izaskun Gaviria and Deputy General Counsel Natasha Heffinck met the premier, a Prime Minister’s Office news release said.

Published in Dawn, June 10th, 2026