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ISLAMABAD, Dec 03 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday underscored that full transparency and merit would remain the government’s foremost priorities in the ongoing privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), announcing that the bidding process would be broadcast live on national television across the country.
Speaking during a meeting at the Prime Minister’s House with all business leaders and company representatives participating in the PIA privatisation process, the PM said the airline’s lost reputation must be restored through a smooth and credible transition.
He said the government was committed to aligning the national flag carrier with modern aviation standards, adding that the reform and divestment process was progressing in an efficient and structured manner. “InshaAllah, PIA will soon once again live up to its old slogan of ‘Great People to Fly With’,” the Prime Minister remarked.
Reiterating his government’s commitment to a corruption-free and professionally executed process, he said transparency in every step would be ensured. “The entire bidding on December 23, 2025, will be aired live on all media channels so that the nation can witness the process firsthand,” he added.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said restoring PIA’s global routes would greatly benefit overseas Pakistanis by providing reliable connectivity. Modernising the airline, he added, was also critical for strengthening Pakistan’s tourism sector, which required a competitive and efficient national carrier.
The prime minister said he was hopeful that whichever bidder ultimately takes charge would dedicate its full energies to restoring the airline’s identity and securing its long-term growth.
The participants praised the government for adopting a transparent and professional mechanism for the privatisation exercise.
The meeting was attended by all bidders participating in the PIA privatisation round, along with senior members of the federal cabinet and government advisors. Federal ministers Ishaq Dar, Ahsan Iqbal Cheema, Muhammad Aurangzeb, Attaullah Tarar, Azam Nazeer Tarar, and Sardar Owais Leghari; Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani; Adviser to the PM Muhammad Ali; Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar; and senior officials were present.