Second Discussion Forum with the Potential bidders of PSO


Islamabad, February 19, 2003

The Second Discussion Forum with the pre-qualified bidders of Pakistan State Oil Company Limited (PSOCL) was held here today to accelerate the privatization process of the company. The representatives of the potential bidders, officials of the Privatisation Commission, Finance Division, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Resources, Pakistan State Oil Company Limited and the Financial Advisor JP Morgan attended the meeting.

The discussions focused on the terms and condition of the sale, finalisation of bid documents and the targeted bidding date with a view to achieving closure of the transaction at the earliest. The bidding is envisaged on 26th April 2003 after resolving certain outstanding issues. The potential bidders have completed their site visits and carried out their detailed due diligence.

The Government plans to privatize Pakistan State Oil Company Limited (PSO) as an integrated company by selling a 51% stake in the Company to a qualified strategic buyer.