ISLAMABAD: Russia is ready to supply discounted crude oil to Pakistan if Islamabad formally approached Moscow, Russian Ambassador Albert Khorev said on Tuesday.
Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Russian Ambassador Khorev said no official request had yet been received from Pakistan regarding discounted oil purchases.
“Moscow is ready to provide discounted oil to Pakistan if Islamabad approaches us formally,” he said, describing the energy sector as the most important pillar of bilateral cooperation.
Khorev stressed that progress in energy ties would depend on Pakistan initiating engagement.
He said the two countries had significant potential for cooperation, particularly in the energy sector.
The remarks come as Pakistan faces mounting pressure from rising fuel costs linked to global supply disruptions.
Oil prices surge amid Strait of Hormuz disruption
Pakistan, like many countries, is grappling with higher energy prices following escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz — a key route for global oil transport — has been severely affected after Iran blocked the passage in response to the US and Israeli strikes.
Amid the disruption, Pakistan has increased petrol and diesel prices by around 20 percent, with officials describing the hike as temporary and linked to the ongoing crisis.
Ambassador Khorev described the Middle East situation as “complex and unpredictable”, adding that it was difficult to determine how long the conflict would last.
Call for diplomacy
The ambassador urged all parties to exercise restraint and resolve disputes through political and diplomatic means under the United Nations Charter.
Khorev said the international community should prioritise dialogue to prevent further escalation and avoid deepening divisions.
He reiterated Moscow’s position that disputes should be addressed through diplomacy rather than military means.
“The only path to stability is dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for sovereignty,” Khorev said.
