President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reached out to Mozambique’s President Chapo as Ukraine explores new sources of gas amid a global energy crisis.
Zelenskyy confirmed in a statement on Tuesday that he had discussed the prospects of Ukraine sourcing some of its natural gas requirements from the southern African country during a telephone call with Chapo on Monday.
“We discussed the possibilities for gas supplies to Ukraine and opportunities for countering security challenges with the President of Mozambique, @daniel_chapo24,” Zelenskyy wrote on X.
“Ukraine is interested in additional energy supplies. Mozambique is interested in Ukraine’s experience and technologies to strengthen its internal security and protect people from terror.”
The outreach comes as disruptions in the Middle East continue to strain global oil and gas markets.
Ukraine is seeking alternative energy partners after Europe – its main supplier – was hit by supply shocks triggered by a US‑Israel military operation in Iran that temporarily disrupted the Strait of Hormuz in early March.
About 20 million barrels of oil normally pass through the strait each day and the closure pushed global prices higher while raising fears of prolonged instability in energy markets.
Mozambique, which is developing one of Africa’s largest natural gas reserves through offshore projects in Cabo Delgado, has emerged as a potential partner as Ukraine looks beyond traditional suppliers.
According to a statement from Chapo, the two leaders also discussed cooperation in agriculture, energy, trade, technical training, digitalisation and food security.
“We expressed our desire to explore concrete mechanisms to deepen collaboration in these sectors,” the statement said.
Chapo said Mozambique is open to deepening bilateral relations while Zelenskyy emphasised Ukraine’s interest in expanding ties with African partners.
The two leaders agreed to maintain regular communication and advance initiatives that could strengthen cooperation.
JN/APA