Diplomatic negotiations to secure fuel from Russia have already begun, Cabinet Spokesperson Minister Nalinda Jayatissa confirmed.
Speaking at a media briefing on recent cabinet decisions, the Minister stated that the government is currently focusing on the possibilities of obtaining fuel through intergovernmental agreements.
He further noted that the Deputy Minister of Energy of Russia is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka in the near future, where discussions on fuel supply will be conducted.
Commenting on the Iranian Ambassador to Sri Lanka’s statement expressing readiness to provide fuel, Minister Jayatissa said that while the offer is appreciated, countries with shipping capabilities are able to take advantage of such opportunities, which Sri Lanka currently lacks.
“Talks with Russia are at the diplomatic level. In the past, we have not been able to obtain oil from Russia, but we are exploring the possibility of achieving this through state-to-state agreements. The Russian Deputy Minister of Energy is expected to visit Sri Lanka, which could further advance these discussions,” the Minister said.
Regarding Iran, he added: “Countries that own the ships currently have the ability to utilize that opportunity. While we are grateful for the statement, we do not have that capability at the moment. However, we have placed several orders for both crude and refined oil. A tender has been opened, and we hope to secure the supply. One tender is scheduled to open today, and according to the current orders, several oil ships are expected to arrive in April. The supply will have to be managed with these shipments.”
