Worried Sri Lanka Looking to Oman for Back-up Oil Imports

Dr. Mohammed Bin Hamad Al-Rumhy

Talks were held to discuss the possibility of the Sultanate of Oman supplying oil to Sri Lanka in case their oil flow is disrupted due to sanctions by the United States against Iran.

The Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Oman, Asoaka Girihagama announced that discussions had been held between the Omani Minister of Oil and Gas, Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad al Rumhy, with the Sri Lankan Minister of Oil and Gas Susil Premajayantha. Mr. Premahjayantha said that unfortunately his country did not have many options for a new source of oil for his country.

“We had two Gulf countries on our cards to seek for oil supply in case the US sanctions on Iran hit our oil inflow, which are Oman and another country in the region. Finally, we decided to approach the Sultanate and we are happy about it,” he said.

“The two ministers had discussed in detail how Oman could assist Sri Lanka in the event of a crisis, which is, if Sri Lanka is unable to import crude oil from Iran,” due to sanctions by the United States, according to another source.

The Sri Lankan ambassador said that in exchange for the deal there would be held an exclusive Sri Lankan trade fair showing off the best of Oman, including attractions and traditional merchandise.

“We will hold an exclusive Sri Lankan trade fair in the Sultanate by May or June 2012. We are currently in talks with various companies and almost 50 companies will be participating in this event.”