Nikolai Shulginov, the Russian Energy Minister, has clarified that Pakistan is not receiving any special discount on crude oil. This clarification comes after Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shahbaz Sharif, expressed gratitude for the first shipment of Russian crude oil, stating that it was imported at a special discount.
Responding to the media, the Russian minister stated, “Oil deliveries to Pakistan have commenced. There is no special discount; it is the same for Pakistan as it is for other buyers.”
Furthermore, Nikolai Shulginov confirmed that the payment between the two countries would be made in Chinese currency, as finalized during an International economic conference in St. Petersburg. While the decision on barter supplies has not been confirmed yet, Pakistan has expressed interest in engaging in barter trade with Afghanistan, Russia, and Iran for petroleum, metals, coal, LNG, wheat, and other commodities.
Regarding the export prices of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Pakistan, the Russian Minister clarified that no decision has been made thus far.