Following claims by former US President Donald Trump that India would halt its purchases of Russian oil, New Delhi reiterated its position, emphasizing that the government’s primary goal is to protect Indian consumers amidst a volatile energy market. India’s energy import decisions are guided by this commitment.
Earlier, Trump had stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured him of India’s decision to stop buying oil from Russia, a move he considered significant. He also expressed an intention to encourage China to take similar steps.
MEA’s Response
The Ministry of External Affairs, through its spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, clarified India’s energy policy. He stated, “India is a significant importer of oil and gas. It has been our consistent priority to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario. Our import policies are guided entirely by this objective.”
Jaiswal highlighted that India’s energy policy has two main objectives: broadening its sourcing base and diversifying to adapt to market conditions.
He further noted that India has been actively working to expand its energy procurement from the US over the past decade. “The current Administration has shown interest in deepening energy cooperation with India. Discussions are ongoing,” he added.
The core of India’s energy strategy, as stated, is to ensure stable energy prices and secure supplies, which involves a broad-based and diversified sourcing approach aligned with market dynamics.
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