BAKU: Azerbaijan has stepped forward as a potential energy lifeline for Pakistan, with state owned energy giant SOCAR expressing readiness to supply liquefied natural gas on short notice as the country grapples with a worsening power crisis and fuel shortages.

The offer comes at a critical moment when Pakistan is urgently seeking spot LNG cargoes to stabilise electricity generation. SOCAR confirmed that under a 2025 framework agreement between SOCAR Trading and Pakistan LNG Limited, shipments can be arranged swiftly once a formal request is submitted by Islamabad.

While the company did not disclose timelines or sourcing details, the development signals a possible breakthrough for Pakistan, which has been struggling to secure fuel amid volatile global markets and disrupted supply chains.

The crisis has been intensified by escalating regional tensions following military strikes involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which led to the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The disruption triggered a major shock in global energy flows, forcing key suppliers like Qatar to suspend LNG deliveries under force majeure declarations.

Pakistan’s heavy reliance on imported gas has left it exposed to such shocks. Domestic gas production has been steadily declining, while LNG imports remain vulnerable to price spikes and supply disruptions, especially in the spot market.

The impact on the power sector has been severe, with electricity shortfall reaching around 3400 megawatts. LNG based plants, once capable of generating 6000 megawatts, are now producing only a fraction of their capacity, worsening load management across the country.

As demand surges with rising temperatures, authorities are scrambling to secure alternative supplies, including ongoing talks with Qatar for additional cargoes. The potential entry of Azerbaijan into Pakistan’s LNG supply chain could offer much needed relief and reshape the country’s energy security outlook.