KP govt renews interest in PIA privatisation with higher bid

WEB DESK: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has once again reached out to the privatisation minister, expressing its interest in participating in privatisation process of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).

In an initial letter on November 1, the KP government officially communicated its intention to submit a competitive bid, offering more than the Rs10 billion proposed by the Blue World Consortium.

In a follow-up letter to Federal Privatisation Minister Abdul Aleem Khan, Hassan Masood Kunwar, Vice-Chairman of the KP Board of Investment and Trade (KP-BOIT), mentioned that 10 days had passed since the first proposal and that the board was seeking an update.

The letter stressed strategic importance of the bid, noting strong support from CM Ali Amin Gandapur and KP Investment Board. According to Geo, it also asked for an update on proposal.

The KP govt reaffirmed dedication to preserving and revitalising PIA, aiming to restore its standing as national flag carrier.

The letter highlighted that KP leadership was ready to offer considerable resources and support to achieve these goals along with aligning with Pakistan’s broader national interests.

Additionally, KP-BOIT expressed willingness to discuss the proposal in further detail with federal government.

They underscored that province’s trade and investment body was ready to engage promptly to outline its strategic vision and competitive bid, showing KP’s commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s aviation sector.

Chief Minister Gandapur had previously criticised the Sharif family, accusing them of trying to acquire PIA “for next to nothing.” He reiterated KP’s commitment to public service and stated that the province would keep the PIA name if their bid is successful.

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