Washington: Washington has said that it has no objection to the import of Russian crude oil by Pakistan, the US says that there are currently no sanctions against Russia’s energy exports to other countries.
Responding to questions posed by The News, a spokesperson of the State Department said that they are aware of reports that a Pakistani delegation is visiting Moscow to discuss possible import of Russian crude oil.
“We recognize the pressure that governments are facing to secure a supply of affordable fuel,” the department said, adding, “We are very clear that every country needs to reduce its energy imports. In that case, you have to make your own choices based on your own circumstances.”
However, the spokesman cautioned that Russia’s actions in Ukraine and Europe have shown it is not a reliable energy supplier, adding that the United States is taking steps to reduce its long-term dependence on Russian energy supplies. continues to encourage.
“We will continue to coordinate with allies and partners to minimize the impact on global markets of Putin’s aggression against Ukraine,” the State Department said.
Pakistani officials left for Moscow
Earlier this week, it was reported that Pakistan could be inching closer to an oil import deal with Russia as top officials of the petroleum division flew to Moscow to explore the possibility of buying Russian crude at discounted rates.
The delegation includes Minister of State for Petroleum Division Dr. Mossadegh Malik, Captain (retd) Muhammad Mehmood, Additional Secretary (in-charge) Petroleum Division and other senior officials.
Finance Minister Ishaq Dar had said that the delegation would negotiate with Russian oil officials for a possible reduction in the import deal.
“We should pray that the visit will be successful and that the government will be able to reach an agreement on favorable terms and conditions,” he said while talking to a TV channel last week.
“The two sides will also consider areas of future cooperation including two gas pipelines, the Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline (PSGP) from Karachi to Lahore and an international gas pipeline from Russia to Pakistan via Kazakhstan. line is included”. Senior officials of the Ministry of Energy told The News.
He explained that “Pakistan will continue to import crude oil from Russia, move forward with stalled negotiations on the $3 billion PSGP, and discuss a new proposed trans-nation gas line from Russia to Pakistan via Kazakhstan.” will do.”
Officials of the Pakistani embassy in Moscow will also be part of the talks.
