Russia Offers Support to Tackle Energy Crisis
The Ministry of Energy affirms that all possible measures are being taken to ensure an uninterrupted and reliable energy supply amid the crisis caused by the war situation in the Middle East.
Following Sri Lanka’s efforts to obtain petroleum and coal from Russian Federation, one of the world’s leading energy suppliers and a close ally of Sri Lanka, a high-level Russian delegation, including Deputy Minister of Energy Mr. Roman Marshavin, arrived in Sri Lanka today to discuss matters further and finalize necessary agreements.
At the Ministry of Finance this evening, a discussion was held between Deputy Ministry of Finance and Minister of Labour Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando, Minister of Energy Eng. Kumara Jayakody, and the Russian delegation.
The discussion focused on necessary short-term solutions to address the energy crisis, as well as on strengthening energy cooperation between the two countries and also the Russian delegation indicated the possibility of supplying crude oil along with refined fuels such as petrol, diesel and aviation fuel. Furthermore, discussions were held on the possibility of obtaining fertilizers required for the country’s agricultural needs.
Russian delegation brought up the possibility of building an oil refinery complex in Sri Lanka, which the country particularly needs. The talks also focused on strengthening long-term bilateral energy ties as well.
Deputy Minister of Energy Arkam Ilyas, Secretary to the Ministry of Energy Prof. Udayanga Hemapala and other several other officials participated in the discussion.
The Russian Deputy Minister of Energy is to hold talks with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake this evening.