Myanmar to import Russian oil, military says

The Southeast Asian nation has maintained pleasant ties with Russia, whilst each stay beneath a raft of sanctions from Western international locations — Myanmar for a navy coup that overthrew an elected authorities final 12 months, and Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, which it calls a “particular navy operation.”

Myanmar would think about joint oil exploration in Myanmar with Russia and China, he mentioned.

The navy has arrange a Russian Oil Buying Committee headed by an in depth ally of Min Aung Hlaing to supervise the shopping for, importing, and transport of gasoline at cheap costs primarily based on Myanmar’s wants, in line with an announcement revealed in a state newspaper on Wednesday.

Along with political turmoil and civil unrest, Myanmar has been hit laborious by excessive gasoline costs and energy cuts, prompting its navy management to show to imports of gasoline oil that can be utilized in energy vegetation.

Petrol costs have surged about 350% for the reason that coup in February final 12 months to 2,300-2,700 kyat (about $1) per litre.

Prior to now week, petrol stations have shut down in numerous components of the nation due to shortages, in line with media stories.

Russia can be a significant provider of weapons to the Myanmar navy.