ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has offered Saudi Arabia billions of dollars in investment opportunities in power transmission, smart grid technology and energy infrastructure as the two countries moved to deepen cooperation in the electricity sector amid Pakistan’s push to modernize its aging power system.
The proposals were presented during a meeting between Pakistan’s Energy Minister Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari and Saudi Arabia’s Energy Working Group, where officials discussed expanding bilateral cooperation, attracting foreign investment and transforming Pakistan’s power sector.
Leghari, who led the Pakistani delegation, met Saudi Assistant Minister of Energy for Electricity Affairs Nasser Al-Qahtani during a joint working group session in Saudi Arabia. Saudi officials, including Assistant Minister of Energy for Oil and Gas Mohammed Alibrahim and Deputy Minister for Oil and Gas Majed Aloutaibi, also participated in broader discussions focused on energy transition, sector reforms and investment opportunities.
The Pakistani minister highlighted Islamabad’s plans to improve efficiency, strengthen governance, modernize technology and restore financial stability in the power sector. He said Pakistan was seeking greater private and foreign investment, particularly in expanding transmission capacity and upgrading the national grid to support rising electricity demand and the integration of renewable energy.
Officials also briefed the Saudi side on Pakistan’s nationwide smart metering initiative, saying the technology would help reduce electricity theft, lower system losses, improve billing accuracy and enhance consumer services.
The talks come as Pakistan seeks strategic partnerships to overhaul its power infrastructure, reduce inefficiencies and create a more investment-friendly energy market. Saudi Arabia, which has been expanding economic engagement with Pakistan, has previously expressed interest in opportunities across energy, mining and infrastructure sectors.
