Bangladesh is stepping up its energy diplomacy with the United States and Russia as part of a broader push to diversify its energy sources

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to diversifying energy sources, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam on Tuesday said the energy ministry is currently in talks with both the United States and Russia to address the country’s energy challenges.

She noted that existing sanctions on Russia necessitate careful procedural handling, including engagement with the United States. Relevant ministries are actively working through diplomatic channels to navigate these complexities.

“Every effort is being made under the leadership of the prime minister, Tarique Rahman, with a focus on protecting the economy and public interest,” she told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Responding to queries, the state minister acknowledged that US approval naturally becomes a factor due to sanctions on Russia.

Highlighting broader diversification efforts, she said Bangladesh is exploring energy sourcing options from multiple countries, including the United States, Russia, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia, to strengthen its reserves.

She stressed that there is currently no energy crisis, although certain groups are attempting to create an artificial perception of shortage. She added that new energy supplies are expected to arrive in April from countries such as Saudi Arabia, India, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

“To diversify energy sources, we will take all necessary steps,” she said.

Meanwhile, Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood told parliament on Monday that fuel hoarding—not supply shortages—has emerged as the primary concern.

“Let me state clearly—there is no fuel shortage in Bangladesh at this moment. In fact, supply has increased compared to last year,” he said, noting that fuel supply in March 2026 was maintained at 10–25% higher than in March 2025.

Delivering a statement under Rule 300, he added that diesel stocks rose from 206,000 tonnes on 17 February to 218,000 tonnes by 30 March, despite sales of around 482,000 tonnes over the past 41 days.

On a separate issue, Shama Obaed Islam underscored the need for coordinated international action against human trafficking, urging all concerned countries to take a united stance.

“People will continue going to countries like Libya, but the real issue is that dishonest individuals are exploiting lives for financial gain. We must bring them to justice first,” she said.

She also called for stricter measures to eliminate human trafficking, stressing that those involved must face exemplary punishment under both domestic and international laws.

“The long-term solution lies in preventing human trafficking altogether. It cannot be tolerated under any standard of civilisation,” she added.