India's Energy Security Remains Supreme Priority, Says MEA
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday firmly stated that India's energy security continues to be the government's topmost priority. This declaration came in response to recent claims made by former US President Donald Trump regarding India's oil import strategies.
Responding to Trump's Assertions
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed media queries following Trump's assertions that India might cease purchasing Russian oil and instead increase crude imports from countries like the United States and Venezuela. Jaiswal clarified that India's decisions regarding oil imports are strictly guided by national interest and the evolving global landscape.
"The government has stated publicly on several occasions that ensuring the energy security of 1.4 billion Indians is the supreme priority of our government," Jaiswal emphasized. "Diversifying our energy sourcing in keeping with objective market conditions and evolving international dynamics is at the core of our strategy to ensure this. All of India's decisions were taken and will be taken with this in mind."
Clarifying the Venezuela Connection
Jaiswal also provided detailed insights into India's relationship with Venezuela, describing it as a long-standing energy partner. He noted that while imports from Venezuela have been affected by international sanctions, the historical ties remain significant.
"As far as Venezuela is concerned, it has been a long-standing partner for India. We were importing crude oil until 2019, after which purchases stopped due to sanctions. Imports resumed briefly between 2023 and 2024, but had to be halted again because of sanctions," he explained.
He further added that Indian public sector undertakings (PSUs) maintain established partnerships with international oil companies operating in Venezuela. "Consistent with our approach to energy security, India remains open to exploring the commercial merits of any crude supply options, including those from Venezuela," Jaiswal stated.
Context of Trump's Claims
The MEA's remarks were prompted by Trump's claims that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had agreed to halt Russian oil purchases as part of a broader trade understanding. Trump suggested that India could potentially increase imports from the US and possibly Venezuela. However, India has not publicly confirmed any such commitment, and the MEA's statement underscores the nation's independent decision-making process based on energy security needs.
This development highlights India's careful balancing act in global energy markets, where strategic autonomy and national interest remain paramount. The government's approach continues to focus on diversification and adaptability to ensure stable and secure energy supplies for its massive population.
