Oman signals preferential fuel supply to Pakistan amid regional tensions

Oman has signalled a willingness to provide preferential fuel cargoes to Pakistan, offering Islamabad a potential buffer against rising regional supply risks and ongoing geopolitical tensions.

The development came during a meeting between Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik and H.E. Fahad Bin Sulaiman Bin Khalaf Alkharusi, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to Pakistan, held on Thursday to discuss the evolving energy situation in the region and avenues for strengthening bilateral cooperation in the energy sector, read an official statement.

Malik highlighted that Pakistan and Oman enjoy long-standing, cordial and brotherly relations, rooted in shared history, mutual respect and strong people-to-people ties.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further expand the bilateral energy partnership and explore new areas of collaboration.

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During the meeting, the minister apprised the ambassador of Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to diversify its energy imports and ensure supply resilience, particularly by exploring alternative routes and sources outside the Strait of Hormuz in light of the changing regional dynamics, read the statement.

The envoy welcomed Pakistan’s push towards diversification and conveyed that Oman stands ready to support Pakistan in enhancing its energy security. In this regard, the federal minister expressed optimism that Oman would consider Pakistan’s request for preferential energy cargoes to meet its growing requirements.

The Omani Envoy responded positively and assured that the request would be considered favourably.

During March, three cargoes of petrol and one cargo of diesel were imported from the ports of Oman. Two more cargoes of petrol will be imported during March from Oman ports.

Opportunities for enhanced cooperation in the upstream sector were also discussed during the meeting, including exploration and production, and underscored the importance of expanding collaboration in oil and gas development projects.

It was noted that Pakistan State Oil (PSO) and Oman Trading International (OQT) are also engaged in constructive discussions to explore the possibility of additional oil cargoes to help meet Pakistan’s energy demand.

Both sides reaffirm their shared commitment to further deepen Pakistan-Oman cooperation in the energy sector and strengthen strategic ties for mutual benefit.