ISLAMABAD (APP) - Petroleum and Natural Resources Federal Minister Syed Naveed Qamar has expressed the need for accelerating oil and gas exploration and production to mitigate the energy shortfall in the country. Energy is the basis of growth and welfare and all out efforts are needed to expedite exploration and production activities in the country, Syed Naveed Qamar said while talking to Dr Elmar Colins, the General Manager of OMV Exploration and Production Pakistan, who called on him Wednesday. Dr Elmar briefed the minister about the activities of the company in Pakistan. The minister directed the officials concerned present in the meeting to take appropriate steps to facilitate and streamline E&P;companies operating in Pakistan. so as to bring the much needed hydrocarbon resources on stream and meet the energy shortage of the country. OMV GM Dr Elmar Colins expressed his optimism on development of unconventional resources of Tight Gas, once the properly laid down policy is put in place. The GM also expressed his commitment to far-reaching social responsibility, as an integral part of business philosophy and in the creation of vital infrastructure in its areas of operations. Syed Naveed Qamar also lauded companys generous contribution for relief of flood victims. The OMV is Austrias largest listed integrated oil and gas industrial company which is involved in exploration activities in Pakistan since 1990. OMV had made a gas discovery at the Miano gas field followed by another significantly larger Sawan gas discovery. The company has an active exploration programme in Pakistan in different concession areas. OMV Pakistan is producing gas from its Miano and Sawan fields in districts Sukkur and Khairpur in Sindh, and contributes significantly to Pakistans gas production.