BD seeks US waiver to import Russian fuel

Bangladesh has sought special waiver from the United States to secure its fuel supplies in the wake of rising tensions in the Middle East and a global energy crisis, the Foreign Ministry said.

Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman raised the issue during a high-level meeting with US Energy Secretary Chris Wright at the Department of Energy in Washington on Wednesday.
 
Senior officials from both countries, including the Bangladeshi ambassador and other embassy staff, attended the talks.

Rahman requested a special waiver from the United States to allow Bangladesh to import refined diesel and other petroleum products from Russian sources to ease domestic energy pressures.
 
He explained that Bangladesh had been unable to benefit from the previous limited global waiver on Russian oil, as no tankers were bound for the country at that time.

The foreign minister also highlighted ongoing energy challenges caused by global supply chain disruptions, particularly ahead of the critical planting season, stressing the importance of uninterrupted fuel supply for farmers to safeguard food security.

The two sides discussed options to purchase more refined oil derived from Russian crude via third countries to meet immediate needs.

In response, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright acknowledged Bangladesh's concerns and reaffirmed the United States' commitment to supporting the country during these difficult times. 

He assured that Washington would positively consider Bangladesh's requests and work closely with relevant US departments to help ensure energy security.