- Russia willing to supply fuel, gas, coal to SL during any crisis
- CPC claims shipments arrival delay due to terminals congestion
Arrangements have been finalised to import fuel from Russia, the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) confirmed.
CPC Managing Director Dr. Mayura Neththikumarage yesterday (1 April) noted that discussions with Russian suppliers are ongoing, adding that the majority of crude and refined fuel shipments scheduled for this month (April) and next month (May) have already been secured.
However, logistical and technical arrangements regarding arrivals are still being finalised. Despite these challenges, he emphasised that fuel procurement has been assured.
Russia has expressed its willingness to provide energy resources, including fuel, gas, and coal, to Sri Lanka, regardless of whether the country is facing a crisis. Issuing a statement, the Transport, Highways and Urban Development Ministry said that this assurance was given by the Russian Deputy Energy Minister Roman Marshavin during a visit by House Leader and Minister Bimal Rathnayake to Russia. Marshavin also assured that Russia would continue to support other development projects in Sri Lanka.
Meanwhile, he further stated that Russia is prepared to provide maximum assistance to address energy supply issues in Sri Lanka, arising from the ongoing Middle East conflict, and agreed to provide full support to meet Sri Lanka’s current fuel requirements as well as any future energy shortages. Accordingly, the necessary fuel supplies could be arranged for the months of April and May, the statement said.
Highlighting the need to streamline the prompt release of required fuel stocks, Marshavin said that necessary facilities would be provided to facilitate future measures in line with agreements between Russian companies and the CPC. He also emphasised that Russia is ready to supply the coal required for Sri Lanka’s energy needs. It was further stated that Russia hopes to see Sri Lanka’s development path become a reality and will continue to extend support for the Government’s sustainable development initiatives.
Dr. Neththikumarage stated that delays in the arrival of fuel shipments are mainly due to congestion at the country’s two fuel unloading terminals.
Commenting on current fuel stocks, Dr. Neththikumarage said that a vessel carrying approximately 32,000 MT of diesel and 5,000 MT of jet fuel is expected to arrive shortly. Two additional diesel shipments are scheduled to reach the island on 6 and 7 April. He further stated that all expected shipments for early April are on track, while deliveries anticipated in the previous month (March) have also been successfully received.
Accordingly, the authorities expect fuel supplies to remain adequate through the end of May, following the festive season. However, the general public has been urged to use fuel sparingly due to persistently high global prices.