ISLAMABAD, Oct 28 (APP): France has expressed interest in investing in Pakistan’s power transmission infrastructure and manufacturing of related equipment, as both sides explored opportunities for cooperation in the energy sector.
A five-member French delegation, led by French Ambassador to Pakistan Jean-Noël Poirier, met Managing Director of National Grid-Pakistan Engr. Altaf Hussain Malik at WAPDA House in Lahore, according to a statement issued on Wednesday.
The meeting discussed challenges facing Pakistan’s energy sector and potential areas of investment and cooperation.
The French ambassador said that French companies were keen to invest in transmission infrastructure and in the manufacturing of equipment required by the sector.
Engr. Altaf Hussain Malik highlighted Pakistan’s rich hydropower potential and noted that National Grid was reinforcing its network to integrate renewable energy under the Indicative Generation Capacity Expansion Plan (IGCEP).
He said the integration of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) was being planned on a fast-track basis, with further expansion envisaged in the future.
Briefing the delegation on diversity and inclusion, the Managing Director stated that the company was committed to women’s empowerment and gender equality in the workplace. He cited the Awaaz (Voice) forum and a dedicated gender diversity network, led by female managers, which provide women employees with a platform to raise concerns and have them addressed. He stressed that an inclusive, respectful and equal-opportunity work environment was central to the company’s values and that the company will continue to encourage women’s participation across all levels of the organisation.
He added that a strong safety culture was being promoted across the company, including the mandatory use of personal protective equipment (PPE), as the safety and well-being of employees remain at the heart of the organisation. He also noted that comprehensive compensation, benefits and total rewards programmes have been introduced.
The French ambassador appreciated the company’s initiatives and expressed optimism about strengthening cooperation and building a long-term partnership with National Grid-Pakistan.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
