Pakistan to import LNG for energy to ease crippled economy

Islamabad: Pakistan will seek imports of liquefied natural gas on an "urgent basis" as it struggles to overcome energy shortages that have crippled the economy.

"Pakistan can't meet energy demands without LNG imports," Asim Hussain, the government's petroleum adviser, said yesterday at a news conference in Islamabad. "LNG imports are the only short-term solution for economic survival."

Power and gas shortages of eight to 16 hours a day have closed factories and caused violent street protests in Pakistan, which is facing its worst energy crisis.

The country, traditionally self-sufficient in gas, was scheduled to start LNG imports in the fourth quarter before the Supreme Court cancelled a contract with European companies.