Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif pledged full transparency and merit in the privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), announcing that the bidding process on December 23 will be aired live on national television. Addressing a meeting at the Prime Minister House with business leaders and representatives from all bidding entities, Sharif emphasized the government’s commitment to reviving the national flag carrier’s tarnished image and aligning it with global aviation standards.
“The privatization is advancing smoothly to make PIA competitive again,” Sharif stated, expressing optimism that the new management would restore its iconic slogan, ‘Great People to Fly With.’ He highlighted that resuming international flights would benefit overseas Pakistanis and boost the country’s tourism sector.
The gathering, attended by key federal ministers including Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Ahsan Iqbal, and Muhammad Aurangzeb, along with advisers and officials, saw participants commend the government’s professional approach. Sharif reiterated that restoring PIA’s operations is vital for economic growth and national pride.