The Government of Pakistan has requested exploration of an alternative energy supply route through Port of Yanbu amid concerns over possible disruption in shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik raised the issue during a meeting with Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki, Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Pakistan. The two sides discussed bilateral energy cooperation and regional supply security.
The minister briefed the ambassador about the evolving regional security situation and its potential implications for global energy markets. He said Pakistan was closely monitoring developments on a daily basis, noting that the country’s major energy imports transit through the Strait of Hormuz, making supply continuity critically important.
The minister stressed that the government was working to safeguard the energy supply chain for domestic consumers. He highlighted the importance of cooperation from friendly countries during uncertain geopolitical conditions, describing Saudi Arabia’s support as “valuable and reassuring” for Pakistan’s energy security.
During the discussion, Pakistani authorities indicated that Saudi sources had already assured secure supply arrangements through the Red Sea route. The minister mentioned that one crude oil vessel from Pakistan has been assured for dispatch to Port of Yanbu for lifting crude oil cargo.
He further expressed optimism that oil supplies routed through Yanbu would be given priority for Pakistan’s requirements if needed. Officials said such arrangements could provide an additional layer of energy security in case maritime tensions escalate in the Gulf region.
The Saudi ambassador reaffirmed that the Kingdom stands ready to support Pakistan in any emergency energy requirement. He stated that the two brotherly nations would continue to strengthen cooperation, particularly during challenging global circumstances, reflecting long-standing strategic ties between the two countries.
Sources indicated that the proposal for alternative supply routing is part of Pakistan’s broader strategy to diversify energy import channels and ensure uninterrupted fuel availability for economic stability. However, no formal agreement has yet been announced regarding long-term supply commitments.
Authorities said further technical discussions between energy officials of the two countries are expected in the coming period to evaluate operational and commercial aspects of the Yanbu supply option.
