State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Aninda Islam Amit has sought comprehensive Saudi cooperation to ensure Bangladesh's energy security.
The state minister sought the cooperation during a high-level talks on the sidelines of the 17th International Energy Forum (IEF-17) in Saudi Arabia.
He engaged in a series of bilateral discussions aimed at attracting foreign investment in the renewable energy sector, expanding international partnerships, and reinforcing national energy security, according to a press release of the ministry.
At the outset of his meeting with Saudi Assistant Minister of Energy Nasser bin Hadi Al-Qahtani, the state minister expressed profound shock and strongly condemned the terrorist attack at Riyadh International Airport that resulted in the deaths of two Bangladeshi nationals and injuries to others.
Conveying the official condolence message from the Prime Minister of Bangladesh to the Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister, he requested active Saudi support for repatriating the victims' remains and ensuring proper medical treatment for the injured.
Addressing bilateral energy ties, the state minister formally sought comprehensive Saudi cooperation to secure Bangladesh's long-term energy requirements.
In response, the Saudi side noted that Bangladesh holds a special place as a brotherly nation and expressed optimism about expanding cooperation across various development and energy initiatives.
To achieve Bangladesh's Vision 2030 energy targets, Aninda emphasised the creation of a regular delegation exchange and consultative framework, while proposing long-term LNG supply provisions and the establishment of a dedicated terminal.
In his second meeting with Qatar’s Minister of State for Energy Affairs and QatarEnergy President & CEO Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, the discussions focused on Bangladesh's rising natural gas demand, existing LNG import structures, and potential new long-term supply agreements.
Both sides also reviewed portfolio LNG supplies and source diversification, stressing the importance of continuous commercial and technical communication between relevant entities.
During his third meeting of the day with ACWA Power CEO Dr. Mohammad Abunayyan, the talks centered on investment opportunities within Bangladesh's renewable energy sector.
ACWA Power formally expressed its interest in exploring clean energy investments in the country.
Members of the visiting Bangladesh delegation and officials from the Bangladesh Embassy in Saudi Arabia attended the meetings, reports UNB.