Russia ready to provide discounted oil to Pakistan, says Ambassador

ISLAMABAD: Albert Khorev has said that Russia is ready to provide discounted oil to Pakistan and encouraged the country to take advantage of this offer.

Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad on Tuesday, he said Russia would supply cheaper oil if Pakistan makes a formal request. However, he added that no official contact has been made yet.

Khorev explained that the energy sector is the most important part of cooperation between Russia and Pakistan. He said any progress will depend on Pakistan starting talks.

Pakistan is currently facing rising fuel prices due to global supply issues caused by tensions in the Middle East. Oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz have stopped after Iran blocked the route in response to strikes by the United States and Israel.

Because of this situation, Pakistan has increased petrol and diesel prices by about 20%. Government officials say this increase is temporary and will be reduced once the situation improves.

The Russian ambassador also said that Iran’s response in the region was aimed at US military sites but did not give more details due to uncertainty. He added that the world was surprised by the actions of US President Donald Trump, calling the situation “complex and unpredictable” and saying it is hard to know when tensions will end.

Khorev also condemned an attack on a girls’ school in Iran, where 170 children were killed, calling it “highly deplorable”. He urged all sides to avoid violence and solve issues through dialogue under the United Nations Charter.

He further criticised the actions of the US and Israel, saying their use of force against Iran has made the crisis worse and created more tension in the region.