Russia and Saudi Arabia state that Middle East crisis impacts energy security

Moscow (ANTARA) - Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud stated on Thursday (2/4) that disruptions to energy production and distribution caused by the Middle East crisis impact global energy security. In a telephone conversation, the two leaders discussed several issues related to the crisis in the Middle East, as conveyed by the Kremlin in a statement. According to the Kremlin, both sides expressed profound concern over the deteriorating military and political situation in the region, the loss of civilian lives, and damage to strategic infrastructure. They emphasised the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities and increased political and diplomatic efforts to achieve a long-term resolution of the conflict that respects the legitimate interests of all parties, according to the statement. The two leaders also highlighted the importance of joint efforts by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its partners, known as OPEC+, to stabilise the global oil market.