SUCCESSFUL MEETINGS IN LONDON TODAY FOR SUI NORTHERN AND SUI SOUTHERN ROADSHOW

Islamabad, February 24, 2006

After participating in a regional economic and investment forum in London hosted by the British Government, the Secretary for Privatisation and Investment, Mr. M. Tahsin Khan Iqbal has successfully begun a two day road show with parties interested in acquiring Sui Northern Gas Pipeline Ltd. and Sui Southern Gas Company Ltd.   Participating with the Secretary are the privatisation transaction manager and senior representatives of privatisation Financial Advisers were present, says a message received from London here today.

Today the Secretary PC met with potential bidders from Pakistan, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.  In one-on-one sessions, Mr. Iqbal answered their questions and provided insights on the investment opportunities in Pakistan and the sale process.  As a consequence of today's meetings, additional organisations committed to form consortia and submit statements of qualification by the 11 March 2006 deadline. The Secretary PC emphasised with all interested parties the commitment of Pakistan to a fast, efficient privatisation completed by the third quarter of 2006.  Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited and Sui Southern Gas Company are Pakistan's only integrated gas transmission and distribution companies.

The Privatisation Commission is satisfied with the quality of companies expressing interest in the two gas companies.  Further meetings in London will continue tomorrow.