Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday directed the authorities concerned to secure the best possible deals for state-owned enterprises (SOEs) being considered for privatisation, warning against any red tape or delay in the process.

Chairing a review meeting on the privatisation of SOEs, the prime minister emphasised that the process must prioritise the national interest and deliver maximum value to the country.

He instructed the government to engage globally reputed experts in the privatisation process and to formulate a comprehensive strategy for strengthening the capacity of public sector entities.

Reiterating his resolve to ensure transparency and efficiency, the prime minister said he would personally monitor the progress of privatisation, with regular review meetings to be held.

The meeting was informed about the ongoing progress in the privatisation of 15 out of 24 SOEs.

The prime minister directed that the privatisation of loss-making and inefficient enterprises, which continue to burden the national exchequer, should be completed at the earliest, while avoiding unnecessary administrative or institutional hurdles.

Federal Ministers Ahad Khan Cheema and Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kiyani, and other senior officials attended the meeting.