A Russian ship loaded with 40,000 tons of diesel destined for Bolivia is being held in the port of Arica, Chile, awaiting improved weather conditions that will allow it to be unloaded, reported the Russian ambassador to Bolivia, Mikhail Ledenev.
The diplomat explained that this shipment is the result of the agreements reached in June between the presidents of Bolivia, Luis Arce, and of Russia, Vladimir Putin, during the meeting in St. Petersburg.
The ambassador noted that the ship has been waiting since late July due to high tide, which has prevented the unloading of fuel. However, Ledenev expressed optimism that the operation could take place between August 9 and 11. He also noted that while the larger ship is waiting, other quantities of Russian diesel have already arrived in Bolivia.
The energy collaboration between Bolivia and Russia is part of a broader agreement that also includes cooperation in the nuclear field. In addition, Ledenev stressed that Russia is offering significant discounts on its energy products to “friendly” countries, such as Bolivia, to help alleviate the current fuel crisis.
On the other hand, the ambassador reported that President Luis Arce has been invited to participate in the BRICS summit, which will be held in October in Kazan, Russia, which underlines the importance of bilateral relations between both countries and the opportunity to strengthen Bolivia’s international ties.
