US Ambassador Affirms India's Commitment to Avoid Russian Oil Imports
In a significant diplomatic statement, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor reiterated on Friday that India has pledged not to purchase Russian oil, aligning with President Donald Trump's efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Gor emphasized that the US administration does not want any nation to procure Russian crude as part of its broader strategy to promote peace.
Diversification of Oil Sourcing and Venezuelan Negotiations
Ambassador Gor highlighted that India is actively diversifying its oil sourcing away from Russia. He revealed that the United States and India are engaged in "active negotiations" to facilitate India's procurement of oil from Venezuela. This move aims to provide alternative energy sources while supporting global efforts to isolate Russia economically.
Imminent Interim Trade Deal
Gor also provided an update on the bilateral trade relations, stating that an interim trade deal between the US and India is set to be signed very soon. He noted that only a "few tweaking points" remain to be finalized, indicating that both nations are close to reaching an agreement that could boost economic ties.
US Stance on Russian Oil and India's Response
On the issue of Russian oil, Gor was unequivocal: "We have seen India diversify on their oil. There is a commitment. This is not about India. The US doesn't want anyone buying Russian oil." He added that President Trump has been clear in his desire to end the war, and any involvement in the conflict through oil purchases is contrary to this goal.
This statement follows India's recent participation in the Pax Silica initiative on the margins of an AI summit, underscoring its engagement in international diplomatic efforts.
India's Official Position on Energy Policy
In response to these developments, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs pointed to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri's earlier statement. Misri clarified that India's energy policy is driven by national interest, with oil companies making sourcing decisions based on assessments of cost, market conditions, availability, and risks. This highlights India's balanced approach to energy security amid global pressures.
Background and Recent Developments
The discussions come in the wake of a framework for an interim trade deal reached earlier this month. President Trump had previously claimed that India committed to not buying Russian oil, a move that coincided with the US reducing tariffs on India from 50% to 18%. This tariff cut is seen as a gesture to strengthen bilateral trade and support India's economic interests.
Overall, Ambassador Gor's remarks underscore the ongoing diplomatic and economic coordination between the US and India, focusing on energy diversification and trade enhancement while addressing global geopolitical challenges.
