Iqbal Hassan Mahmood, the minister of power, energy, and mineral resources, today asked the United States for help in meeting the nation’s energy needs in the current global environment.
He stated, “The government has been preparing to import energy from alternative sources amid growing uncertainty over global energy supplies due to the Middle East conflict.”
Following a meeting at the Bangladesh Secretariat with US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs S. Paul Kapur, the minister made the statements.
He said Bangladesh was concerned about uninterrupted fuel supplies due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, adding, “Not only Bangladesh but the whole world is worried about energy supplies. The government is trying to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted supply of energy.”
The minister said the government had sought fuel assistance from the United States at this time, while the US Assistant Secretary assured him that he would convey the matter to the higher authorities.
“However, if fuel consumption is reduced, it will be possible to meet the demand from existing stock until the Eid holidays or March. But diesel sales have suddenly increased in the country,” he said.
The Bangladesh Border Guard (BGB) has been instructed to strengthen vigilance along the border to prevent fuel smuggling, the minister added.
“Unnecessary use of lights in shopping malls and at various events should be stopped,” Iqbal Hassan said, urging people to use fuel wisely.
Additionally, he urged people to use public transportation rather than own vehicles.
The minister stated that despite the current situation, efforts would be taken to maintain load-shedding at a manageable level.
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