In a bold move to ensure transparency, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered that the privatisation process of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) be streamed live across television and digital platforms. The directive came during a high-level meeting on Friday, where the premier emphasized his administration’s resolve to finalize the airline’s sale within the designated timeline.
During the meeting, Sharif urged officials to intensify efforts to attract investors through proactive measures, including organizing roadshows to showcase PIA’s potential. Authorities provided updates on the bidding framework, investor eligibility, and a strategic outreach plan developed with expert consultants.
The meeting saw participation from key figures, including Federal Ministers Khawaja Asif, Ahad Cheema, and Attaullah Tarar, alongside Attorney General Mansoor Usman Awan, advisors Muhammad Ali and Syed Tauqir Shah, and other senior officials.
The government has refined its approach for PIA’s second privatisation attempt, setting stricter criteria to ensure only financially robust bidders participate. Notably, provincial governments have been excluded from the process. Muhammad Ali, Adviser on Privatisation, revealed that interested parties have until June 3 to express interest in acquiring 51% to 100% of PIA’s shares, along with management control.
Learning from past setbacks, the government has introduced flexible terms, allowing bidders to swap lead consortium members up to two weeks before the bidding deadline. Ali expressed optimism about concluding the deal by the final quarter of 2025, signaling a pivotal step toward revitalizing the national carrier.
This transparent and inclusive approach underscores the government’s commitment to a fair and efficient privatisation process, aiming to secure a sustainable future for PIA.
