Reaffirming the government’s commitment to diversifying energy sources, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam on Tuesday said the Energy Ministry is currently in discussions with both the United States and Russia to address the country’s energy challenges, reports UNB.
She said the existing sanctions on Russia require procedural handling, including engagement with the United States.
Relevant ministries are actively working to resolve these complexities through diplomatic channels.
“Every effort is being made under the leadership of the Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, with a focus on safeguarding the economy and public interest,” she told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Responding to queries, the State Minister acknowledged that US approval becomes a natural consideration due to sanctions on Russia.
Highlighting broader diversification efforts, she said Bangladesh is exploring energy sourcing options from multiple countries, including the United States, Russia, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia, to strengthen reserves.
She emphasised that there is currently no energy crisis, though some groups are attempting to create an artificial sense of shortage.
She said new energy supplies may arrive in April from countries such as Saudi Arabia, India, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
“To diversify energy sources, we will take all necessary steps,” she added.
Meanwhile, Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku informed parliament on Monday that fuel hoarding, not supply shortages, has emerged as the primary concern.
“Let me state clearly—there is no fuel shortage in Bangladesh at this moment. In fact, supply has increased compared to last year,” he said, noting that fuel supply in March 2026 was maintained at 10–25 percent higher than in March 2025.
Delivering a statement under Rule 300, he added that diesel stocks rose from 206,000 tonnes on February 17 to 218,000 tonnes by March 30, despite sales of approximately 482,000 tonnes over the past 41 days.
On a separate issue, Shama Obaed stressed the need for coordinated international action against human trafficking, urging all concerned countries to take a united stance.
“People will continue going to countries like Libya, but the real issue is that dishonest individuals are exploiting lives for financial gain. We must bring them to justice first,” she said.
Earlier, she also called for strict measures to eliminate human trafficking, stating that those involved must face exemplary punishment under both domestic and international laws.
“The long-term solution lies in preventing human trafficking altogether. It cannot be tolerated under any standard of civilisation,” she added.
Bd-pratidin English/ ANI
