Dhaka: State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam today announced that Bangladesh is stepping up diplomatic efforts to diversify fuel sources and enhance reserves, emphasizing that there is no actual energy shortage despite attempts to create an artificial crisis through hoarding.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the state minister assured reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that the country currently has sufficient fuel reserves, and efforts are ongoing to further bolster the stock. The government is actively engaging with multiple countries to ensure an uninterrupted fuel supply, as imports from some sources have been disrupted by the ongoing global situation.
The government is exploring alternative fuel sources, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs providing full cooperation to the Energy Ministry. Bangladesh is considering imports from countries such as Saudi Arabia, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, the United States, and Russia. Several fuel consignments are expected to arrive in
April from Saudi Arabia, India, Malaysia, and Indonesia, facilitated by discussions and agreements, including existing memorandums of understanding.
Shama Obaed addressed reports of fuel shortages, clarifying that the situation is being misrepresented due to hoarding by some individuals, which is creating artificial pressure in the market. She emphasized the need to address this issue strictly to prevent an artificial crisis.
Regarding fuel imports from Russia, the state minister noted that procedural considerations, including engagement with the United States, are necessary due to sanctions. Relevant ministries are in discussions to resolve such matters.
In terms of long-term planning, Shama Obaed highlighted that the government is working to diversify energy sourcing to avoid future economic pressure, under the leadership of the Prime Minister.
Addressing a question on visa issues with India, she mentioned that the Indian government has assured the normalization of visa processes, which is crucial for t
rade, business, medical treatment, and people-to-people connectivity.
On migration through Libya, the state minister stressed the importance of curbing human trafficking. She called for legal migration while bringing human traffickers to justice, urging stronger coordination among countries to prevent such crimes.