Maldives seeks oil supply assistance from India amid global disruptions

The government of the Maldives has requested India to supply oil to the country amid disruptions in global energy markets, according to India’s foreign ministry.

Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs of India, announced the request during a press conference.

He said both Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have also sought assistance from India for oil supplies.

The requests come as global oil markets face disruptions linked to the conflict in the Middle East involving Israel, the United States and Iran.

Jaiswal said India exports petroleum products to neighbouring countries and noted that the government is working to supply diesel to Bangladesh through the India–Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline and other arrangements.

He added that any supply of oil to neighbouring countries would depend on India’s domestic requirements and the capacity of its refineries.

Meanwhile, Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel said the country is exploring additional sources of oil supply due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Khaleel, who chairs the cabinet committee established to address the economic impact of the conflict, said neighbouring countries and other partners are being approached regarding fuel supply.

Global oil prices have increased amid concerns that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz could be disrupted as tensions escalate in the region.

Brent crude rose by $8.54, or 9.28 percent, to $100.52 per barrel. US West Texas Intermediate crude increased by $7.22, or 8.28 percent, to $94.47 per barrel.