Islamabad (Urdu Point / Pakistan Point News – April 8, 2026) Federalism Energy Minister Sardar Owais Ahmad Khan Leghari on Wednesday held a meeting with the Canadian delegation headed by Canadian High Commissioner Tariq Ali Khan to discuss bilateral relations, cooperation in the energy sector and investment prospects.
During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on enhancing cooperation in the energy sector and enhancing economic relations.
The Canadian envoy expressed his appreciation for the positive role played by Pakistan in facilitating the ceasefire in the context of recent tensions between the United States and Iran, and expressed his hope that Islamabad would continue to support the upcoming dialogue process.
The Minister urged the Government of Canada to play an active role in promoting dialogue and ensuring lasting peace in the region.
The minister said this while discussing the energy sector Pakistan It generated about 55% of its energy mix from clean sources last year. He said this reflects the clear political direction of the government. He added that the government is taking steps to protect the energy sector from unexpected challenges. He pointed out that hydroelectric power will be expanded further to provide sustainable and affordable electricity.
Sardar Owais said that the government is working to reduce dependence on imported coal. He said that plans are being reviewed to convert power plants powered by imported coal to local coal. Environmental studies are almost complete. If this is found possible, the transfer will be carried out.
He also highlighted that the government is working to enhance battery energy storage systems (BESS) at the utility level.
He said that private sector investments in this area are also being encouraged. He added that a system is being developed for the safe and environmentally friendly disposal of solar panel waste.
The Canadian High Commissioner expressed her appreciation for these steps. With the increasing use of electric vehicles, proper planning for battery disposal is also important, he said.
The minister said that the time-of-use tariff will be implemented soon. This will enhance the efficient use of electricity, he said. He added that industrial consumers will benefit from lower costs with increased usage during specific hours.
He further said that for about two years the energy sector has been facing serious challenges. The government decided to back away from unnecessary projects. He said that reforms are now being implemented on the basis of a sustainable and less expensive approach.
Investment opportunities were also discussed. The Canadian High Commissioner said that the Canadian company GCM is interested in the Pakistani energy sector. The minister said that Pakistan offers strong investment potential, especially in the competitive electricity market and transportation infrastructure. He said that the government welcomes foreign investment. The two sides agreed to continue discussions at the technical level.
The Canadian High Commissioner also announced that the World Energy Expo will be held in Canada this summer. He said it would provide a good opportunity for Pakistani professionals to learn and network. The Federal Minister welcomed this and said that such platforms support technology transfer and enhance cooperation.