The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has officially informed the federal government of its intention to place a bid for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), proposing an offer that would exceed the current highest bid of Rs10 billion from the Blue World Consortium.
In a letter to Federal Minister for Privatisation Aleem Khan, the vice chairman of the KP Board of Investment and Trade (KP-BOIT), Hassan Masood Kunwar, expressed the province’s desire to participate in the bidding process for the sale of PIA.
The letter emphasized their commitment, stating, “On behalf of the chief minister and people of the province, we would like to express our earnest interest in participating in the bidding process for the sale of PIA.” It continued, “This letter serves as our formal intent to position the government of KP as a competitive bidder in this strategic acquisition.”
Highlighting the significance of PIA as the national flag carrier, the letter noted, “Recognising the importance of retaining PIA within the national fold, the chief minister has directed us to actively pursue the acquisition to ensure the airline remains under the control of government rather than being transferred to a private or foreign-backed entity.”
The letter requested that the federal government consider the KP government’s proposal as a viable alternative to maintain PIA’s legacy within a provincial framework, aligning with the public interest in safeguarding national assets. It stated, “In line with this commitment, we are prepared to offer a bid that will surpass the current highest offer of Rs10 billion by Blue World Consortium, ensuring a strong and competitive position within this process.”
The letter also indicated the province’s eagerness for an immediate meeting with the privatisation ministry to present their proposal in detail, discuss their strategic vision for PIA, and outline their capacity to exceed the highest bids. “Please let us know a convenient time for this engagement, as we are prepared to act swiftly and decisively in our pursuit of this vital national interest,” it concluded.
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Sources revealed that the matter was discussed in a meeting that included KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur on Thursday.
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