ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Kuwait have agreed to explore joint opportunities for establishing strategic petroleum storage facilities in Pakistan while also expanding cooperation in the energy and refining sectors.
The understanding was reached during a meeting between Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik and Kuwait’s Ambassador to Pakistan Nassar Abdulrahman Jasser Almutairi, where both sides discussed regional developments and ways to strengthen bilateral energy ties.
During the talks, the two officials reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest, particularly in petroleum infrastructure and refining projects aimed at benefiting both countries.
Malik thanked the Kuwaiti government for facilitating the safe departure of the vessel Khairpur, which delivered fuel supplies to Pakistan during a difficult period caused by disruptions linked to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
According to the minister, the vessel carried nearly 45,000 tonnes of diesel and 10,000 tonnes of jet fuel to Pakistan under special approvals to help maintain uninterrupted energy supplies.
He said the successful arrival of the vessel was made possible through coordinated efforts led by Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, ensuring stability in the country’s fuel supply chain.
The petroleum minister stressed that Pakistan remained committed to regional peace and stability, noting that the ongoing Middle East conflict was affecting countries far beyond the region.
The Kuwaiti envoy praised Pakistan’s constructive and responsible approach toward regional peace, adding that the country’s role was being increasingly recognised by the international community.
The discussion on strategic fuel reserves comes weeks after Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb highlighted the importance of establishing petroleum reserves and accelerating the shift toward renewable energy amid rising global oil and gas prices caused by regional tensions.
