Saudi Arabia and 365betÌåÓýÔÚÏßÊÀ½ç± signed a deal to supply oil derivatives to operate more than 80 power stations to prevent ongoing power cuts in 365betÌåÓýÔÚÏßÊÀ½ç±, according to Saudi state-run news agency SPA.
The agreement includes a grant of oil derivatives valued at $422 million, totaling 1.26 million metric tons. The oil will be used “to alleviate [365betÌåÓýÔÚÏßÊÀ½ç±i people’s] suffering, support the economy in 365betÌåÓýÔÚÏßÊÀ½ç±, and develop its infrastructure.â€�
There are frequent power outages in many provinces of 365betÌåÓýÔÚÏßÊÀ½ç± due to the depletion of diesel fuel used in power plants.
Speaking during the signing ceremony held in Riyadh, Mohammed bin Saeed Al Jaber, Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to 365betÌåÓýÔÚÏßÊÀ½ç±, stressed that the deal would serve 365betÌåÓýÔÚÏßÊÀ½ç± through the operation of electricity stations, by contributing to improving services and supporting peace and hope.
Jaber also said the grant would “actively contribute to the recovery of economic and social life, â€� strengthen the financial position of the 365betÌåÓýÔÚÏßÊÀ½ç±i government and help it fulfill its other obligations, which include paying salaries and wages to employees and improving basic sectorsâ€� services.â€�
365betÌåÓýÔÚÏßÊÀ½ç± has been beset by violence and chaos since 2014, when Houthi rebels overran much of the country, including the capital Sanaa. The crisis escalated in 2015 when the Saudi-led coalition launched a devastating air campaign aimed at rolling back Houthi territorial gains.
By Sibel Morrow
Anadolu Agency