ISLAMABAD, Mar 04 (APP):Federal Minister for Petroleum, Ali Pervaiz Malik on Wednesday met Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki and discussed energy cooperation and the regional situation.
During the meeting, both sides discussed matters of mutual interest and bilateral cooperation, said a news release.
The Federal Minister apprised the Ambassador about the current situation and the implications of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz on global energy markets.
He said that Pakistan is closely monitoring the evolving situation on a daily basis, as the majority of Pakistan’s energy supplies transit through the Strait of Hormuz.
The Minister emphasized that the government of Pakistan is actively endeavoring to ensure continuity of the energy supply chain for its people.
He added that the support of brotherly countries like Saudi Arabia means a lot to Pakistan during challenging times.
He further highlighted that Saudi Arabian sources had assured security of supplies through the Port of Yanbu on the Red Sea, which can help meet energy requirements.
Ali Pervaiz Malik expressed gratitude for the continued support of Saudi Arabia and stated that the Kingdom is already assisting Pakistan.
He informed that one vessel has been assured dispatch from Pakistan to the Port of Yanbu to lift crude oil for Pakistan. He further expressed hope that supplies of oil from the Port of Yanbu will be prioritized for Pakistan.
The Ambassador said that the Kingdom is fully aware of the evolving situation and reaffirmed that Saudi Arabia will stand firmly with Pakistan to meet any emergency requirements.
He emphasized that Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are brotherly countries and would continue to stand together, especially in these testing times.