Myanmar and Russia are discussing technical constraints on the construction of an oil refinery, according to U Aung Phyo Htut, Economic Attaché in Moscow, citing a news release from the Russian Embassy’s website https://www.angi.ru.
Since Myanmar’s crude oil refining capacity can cover only two-thirds of domestic demand, building a refinery with Russian assistance is a critically needed project. The diplomatic mission emphasized that Myanmar’s interest in energy cooperation with Russia is long-term and not related to the current crisis situation. In addition to oil refining, those parties are discussing several renewable energy initiatives, according to Izvestiya, a daily newspaper in Russia.
The embassy noted that small-scale hydro, wind, and solar power projects are being developed, yet their project results are promising despite being in their early stages.
Amidst a global energy crisis, Myanmar, which is heavily reliant on fuel imports from Singapore and Malaysia, has been significantly accelerating its search for alternative supply routes. As the State Duma’s Deputy Chair Alexei Chepa previously stated, Myanmar’s interest in Russian energy resources, including oil, has risen notably in recent months, as per the news release.
In April, the Russian Ministry of Energy discussed plans to arrange the supply of a wide range of petroleum products and liquefied natural gas to Myanmar. — NN/KK
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