PIA’s Former Glory to Be Restored, Citizens to Receive World-Class Travel Facilities: Prime Minister

Islamabad.Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif expressed satisfaction over the transparent completion of the privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), stating that the move will restore PIA’s former glory, provide citizens with world-class travel facilities, and enhance Pakistan’s prestige globally.
The Prime Minister was addressing a ceremony marking the signing and exchange of transaction documents between the government and the Arif Habib Consortium regarding PIA’s privatization. The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Federal Minister for Information Atta Ullah Tarar, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Special Adviser to the Prime Minister Muhammad Ali, and other senior officials.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Prime Minister said the event holds historic significance and congratulated the nation. He emphasized that the Arif Habib Consortium has played a prominent role in promoting industrial growth and prosperity, and expressed confidence that privatization will ensure comfortable travel, passenger safety, and dignity.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recalled PIA’s historical status in global aviation, noting that its slogan “Great People to Fly With” was widely recognized. He added that the privatization process, including investment from the consortium, will enhance service quality and bring PKR 55 billion to the national treasury.
Chairman of the Arif Habib Consortium, Arif Habib, said the initiative allows Pakistani investors to take the lead and confirmed that PKR 125 billion of the total PKR 180 billion investment will be spent on improving PIA’s operational efficiency. He pledged to work tirelessly to meet the expectations of the government and public.
Special Adviser for Privatization Muhammad Ali described the signing ceremony as historic and noted that it demonstrates the strong commitment of investors to Pakistan’s business environment.