Pakistan announced on Wednesday that Saudi Arabia had responded positively to its request for an alternative oil supply route following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to Iranian attacks.
According to an official statement, Federal Oil Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik met with Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Saeed al-Malki and the two sides discussed issues of mutual interest and bilateral cooperation.
Malik briefed the Ambassador on the current situation and the impact of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz on the global energy market.
He said Pakistan is closely monitoring the evolving situation on a daily basis as a large part of Pakistan’s energy supplies passes through the Strait of Hormuz.
He emphasized that the Government of Pakistan is actively striving to ensure continuity of energy supply chain for its people. He pointed out that the support of a brotherly country like Saudi Arabia means a lot to Pakistan during difficult times.
“He further emphasized that Saudi sources have ensured the security of supplies through the Red Sea port of Yanbu, which could help meet energy needs,” the statement said.
Mr. Malik expressed his gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s continued support and said that Saudi Arabia is already supporting Pakistan. He informed that it was assured that one ship would be dispatched from Pakistan to Yanbu port to load crude oil destined for Pakistan.
He further expressed hope that oil supplies from Yanbu port will be prioritized by Pakistan.
The Saudi envoy said the Kingdom was fully aware of the evolving situation and reaffirmed the country’s firm cooperation with Pakistan to respond to any emergency.
According to the statement, he stressed that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are brotherly countries and will continue to stand together, especially during these testing times.
Pakistan relies on oil supplies from the Gulf region, and any disruption to supplies through the Strait of Hormuz could affect the country’s stocks. The government is trying to offset the impact by finding alternative supply routes.
