ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Wednesday that the privatisation of non-profitable institutions and unused government properties was in the national interest, as it would not only reduce the burden on the national exchequer but would also help the government procure financial resources for social and welfare development projects.

He said this while chairing a review meeting regarding the progress on the privatisation of various government institutions and properties.

The meeting was attended by Planning Minister Asad Umar, Privatisation Minister Mian Mohammad Soomro, Finance Adviser Dr Abdul Hafiz Shaikh, Commerce Adviser Abdul Razak Dawood, Adviser on Reforms Dr Ishrat Hussain and Special Assistant to PM on Information Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan.

The Privatization Division secretary briefed the prime minister about the privatisation process, saying that the privatisation of seven institutions and properties would be completed this year. “These include two RLNG power plants, SME Bank, Services International Portal-Lahore, Jinnah Convention Centre-Islamabad as well as 27 government properties.

The PM was informed the seven transactions would be completed by May and June this year.

Speaking on the occasion, PM Imran called for all possible efforts to complete the process of privatisation within the stipulated timeframe.

He said in this context, inter-ministerial coordination should be improved so that quick action could be taken on all unresolved affairs.