Pakistan eyes higher Russian oil imports as Hormuz crisis spurs supply diversification

Pakistan expects to increase imports of oil and gas from Russia as recent disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz highlighted the risks of relying on a single energy corridor, Pakistan’s ambassador to Moscow said.

In comments reported by TASS, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi said Islamabad is in contact with Russian authorities and anticipates future deliveries of both oil and gas.

The ambassador said the closure of the Strait of Hormuz during the recent regional crisis demonstrated the need for alternative routes to transport energy resources, both for Pakistan and for global markets.

Tirmizi also said Pakistan and Russia were continuing negotiations on the Pakistan Stream gas pipeline, formerly known as the North-South gas pipeline.

He described the project as an important initiative that could become a landmark agreement between the two countries once broader economic cooperation gains momentum.

The pipeline is designed to transport imported gas from southern Pakistan to major consumption centers in the north and has long been viewed as a key component of bilateral energy cooperation.