SEOUL, March 6 (AJP) - South Korea has secured over 6 million barrels of crude oil from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Cheong Wa Dae said on Friday.
"We have consulted with the UAE to secure crude oil, and the good news is that we were able to secure more than 6 million barrels," presidential chief of staff Kang Hoon-sik said during a press briefing on Friday, adding that it will help stabilize oil prices.
Fuel prices in South Korea have been rapidly rising amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East shortly after U.S.-led airstrikes on Iran last week, sparking fears of an energy crisis and prompting the government to vow a crackdown on price collusion and other unfair practices.
Kang also said that an additional passenger flight carrying South Korean nationals and other travelers stranded in Dubai is set to arrive at Incheon International Airport later in the day, following discussions with the UAE to ensure their safe return.
He pledged to continue talks with the UAE to dispatch a chartered flight to bring back those unable to return due to the closure of airports in Dubai.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.
