ISLAMABAD, Wednesday, March 4, 2026 (WNP): Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik held a meeting with Nawaf bin Said Al‑Malki, Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Pakistan, on Wednesday to discuss bilateral energy cooperation and the evolving regional situation affecting global oil supplies.

The meeting focused on matters of mutual interest and the impact of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy shipping route through which a significant portion of Pakistan’s oil imports passes.

During the discussion, the petroleum minister briefed the Saudi envoy on the potential implications of the situation for global energy markets and Pakistan’s energy security. He said the government is closely monitoring developments on a daily basis, noting that most of Pakistan’s energy supplies transit through the strategic waterway.

Malik emphasized that the government is taking proactive measures to ensure the continuity of the country’s energy supply chain despite the uncertainty. He added that support from friendly countries such as Saudi Arabia is vital for Pakistan during challenging times.

The minister noted that Saudi authorities had assured Pakistan of the security of energy supplies through the Port of Yanbu on the Red Sea, which could help meet the country’s oil requirements if traditional supply routes face disruptions.

Expressing appreciation for Riyadh’s continued cooperation, Malik said Saudi Arabia has already extended support to Pakistan in the current circumstances. He also informed the ambassador that arrangements are underway for a vessel to be dispatched from Pakistan to Yanbu to lift crude oil supplies.

The minister expressed hope that shipments from the Saudi Red Sea port would be prioritized for Pakistan in the event of prolonged disruptions in regional shipping routes.

Ambassador Al-Malki reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to assisting Pakistan, saying the Kingdom is closely following the evolving situation and stands ready to help Islamabad meet any emergency energy requirements.

He stressed that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share deep fraternal ties and would continue to support each other, particularly during times of regional uncertainty.

Energy analysts note that alternative supply routes such as those through the Red Sea could become increasingly important for countries dependent on Gulf energy exports if disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz persist.