Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has raised concerns regarding the collection of capacity payments by public sector companies, known as GENCOs, questioning their role in the process since they are government projects.

While addressing the federal cabinet on Monday, PM Shehbaz stated that the energy ministry’s task force has worked “swiftly” and has achieved targets of 3,000 megawatts. “Ongoing discussions are taking place with major companies, and he emphasized the need for complete unity in this matter.”

The premier reiterated that there was no justification for public GENCOs to receive capacity payments, as they were government initiatives. He highlighted that making capacity payments in dollars “poses a significant challenge.”

He mentioned the girls’ summit held in Islamabad where several papers were presented. The premier acknowledged the various challenges facing women’s education in the country.

PM Shehbaz highlighted that 22.8% of children in Pakistan are out of school, with the majority being girls, which he described as a “significant problem.” Since education has been devolved to the provinces, they play a crucial role in addressing such issues, he said and added that the federal government should collaborate with the provinces to tackle the challenges in the education sector.

He directed the education minister to “work closely” with the provinces, stating that if Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui can resolve the issues in education, “it would be a tremendous national service.”

PM Shehbaz also mentioned that the Pakistan International Airlines has resumed flights to Europe, noting that the first flight to Paris “marked a significant success” following a major setback.

Restrictions on the national flag carrier have gradually been lifted, he said and expressed hope that flights to London would soon be restored.

The prime minister stated that the establishment of a new Pakistan-Iran trade corridor at the Panjgur location would enhance legal trade and lead to success in curbing smuggling.

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He further noted that the Kurram situation was returning to normal after a significant setback following a peace agreement. Bunkers are being dismantled, and food and medical supplies are being provided, which he described as a “positive development.”

PM Shehbaz expressed hope that all stakeholders would work together to maintain peace and engage in dialogue to de-escalate tensions among conflicting groups, striving to prevent such incidents from occurring again.

Shahbaz Sharif highlighted that the Pakistan Armed Forces have initiated operations against the Khawarij. On Monday, the military’s media wing reported that 27 terrorists were killed in security operations in Waziristan.