Karachi, In a pressing statement on Sunday, Pasban Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman Altaf Shakoor urged the newly formed government to prioritize the completion of three crucial energy supply projects—CASA-1000, TAPI, and the IP Gas Pipeline. These projects are essential for addressing Pakistan’s acute energy shortages and for the nation’s economic liberation from international debt dependencies.

According to Pasban Democratic Party, Shakoor criticized previous administrations for their delays in advancing these projects due to external pressures from international lenders. He highlighted the strategic importance of the Central Asia-South Asia power project (CASA-1000), the Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India (TAPI) Gas Pipeline, and the Iran–Pakistan (IP Gas) Pipeline. These initiatives are seen as critical for enhancing Pakistan’s energy security and for fostering regional cooperation reminiscent of the historical Silk Road.

Shakoor also pointed out recent developments, such as the commencement of the IP Gas pipeline’s remaining section within Pakistan by the outgoing caretaker government and the initiation of work on CASA-1000 in Afghanistan. He warned against external attempts to undermine these projects, emphasizing their significance for Pakistan’s ability to overcome its energy crisis and economic challenges. The PDP chairman called on national leaders, including the chief of army staff and the chief justice, to protect these projects as part of Pakistan’s national security framework.

Urging unity among government and political figures for the national interest, Shakoor appealed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to expedite these energy projects. He stressed that the successful completion of CASA-1000, TAPI, and IP Gas would not only provide affordable energy but also significantly reduce the country’s energy deficits.