Bangladesh seeks US 'special permission' to buy Russian oil

Bangladesh has sought special permission or a temporary waiver from the United States to import fuel oil from Russia, Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has said. He also mentioned that Bangladesh has requested the same facility granted to India.

He shared this information with journalists after a meeting with US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen at the Planning Minister's office in Sher-e-Banglanagar on Wednesday evening.

The Finance Minister said the United States has already granted a temporary waiver to India for purchasing Russian oil. Bangladesh is also interested in receiving a similar facility. The matter has been conveyed to the United States.

He further said obtaining such a waiver would be beneficial for the country's economy. However, time will tell what decision the United States makes.

The meeting also discussed the current situation in the international energy market, uncertainty in global oil and gas supply, and ensuring energy security in Bangladesh. Discussions also covered strengthening investment, trade and economic cooperation between the two countries, as well as enhancing the capacity of various government institutions.

In response to a question from journalists, the Finance Minister said no specific decision was made during the meeting regarding a potential trade agreement with the United States. A trade agreement is a matter between two countries, so nothing can be said at this moment.

He further informed that the government is preparing for potential impacts should the international conflict become prolonged. Planning is underway considering all scenarios – whether the war is short-term, medium-term or long-term.