The military regime in Myanmar plans to import Russian petrol and mazut to ease supply concerns and rising prices amid a global energy crisis.

The Southeast Asian country maintains friendly ties with Russia, even though both remain under the shadow of sanctions from Western countries, that is, Myanmar over a military coup that overthrew an elected government last year, and Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.

Russia is looking for new customers for energy in the region as its biggest export destination, Europe, will impose an embargo on Russian oil later this year.

Military spokesman Zhao Min Tun said during a press conference on Wednesday that they have received permission to import petrol from Russia, adding that it is preferred for its quality and low cost.

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According to media reports, shipment of fuel oil is expected to start arriving in September.

Zaw Min Tun said that the junta leader Min Aung Hlaing discussed oil and gas during a trip to Russia last month. Myanmar now imports its fuel through Singapore. Myanmar will consider joint oil exploration in Myanmar with Russia and China, he said.

In addition to political unrest, Myanmar has been hit hard by high fuel prices and power cuts, prompting its military leadership to turn to imports of mazut that can be used in power plants.

Petrol prices have risen about 350% since last February’s coup to 2,300-2,700 kyats (about $1) per liter. Last week, petrol stations were closed in various parts of the country due to shortages, according to media reports.

In addition, Russia is also a major supplier of weapons to the Myanmar military.

Source: APA MPA

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