Dhaka:Energy Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood met with the Algerian ambassador to discuss potential agreements for importing liquefied natural gas (LNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). This meeting comes amid a supply crunch in the Middle East, as stated in an official announcement.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the talks focused on possible memoranda of understanding regarding LNG and LPG cooperation. Preparations for Minister Tarique Rahman's upcoming visit to Algeria were also discussed.
During the meeting in Dhaka, Mahmood and Algerian Ambassador Dr. Abdelouahab Saïdani explored ways to enhance bilateral energy cooperation. Both parties expressed a commitment to strengthening their longstanding ties.
Energy Secretary Md Ziaul Huq was in attendance at the meeting. Algeria, a North African country on the Mediterranean coast, has become a key petroleum source for South Asian nations due to shipping route disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Historically, Algerian LNG and LPG exports were predominantly sent to Europe. However, recent geopolitical changes have prompted South Asian countries to diversify their energy sources beyond traditional Middle Eastern suppliers. Algerian shipping routes to South Asia bypass the Strait of Hormuz entirely.