New Delhi, October 16: India said on Thursday that its oil import decisions are made entirely to protect the interests of Indian consumers, especially during the current volatile global energy situation. India oil imports from Russia. India oil imports from Russia. The statement came after former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him India would stop buying oil from Russia.
Speaking at a press briefing, Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), avoided commenting directly on Trump’s remarks or confirming if any conversation had taken place between the two leaders. However, he emphasized that India’s energy policy is driven by the need for stable prices and reliable supplies.
“India is a significant importer of oil and gas. Our main goal is to protect Indian consumers in a changing and uncertain energy market. Our import policies are designed to achieve that,” Jaiswal said. India oil imports from Russia
He explained that India’s energy strategy focuses on diversifying oil sources and ensuring security of supply. This approach has been consistent since early 2022, when Russia invaded Ukraine, causing disruptions and fluctuations in global oil prices.
Regarding U.S.-India energy ties, Jaiswal said that both countries have been working for years to strengthen cooperation in the energy sector.
“We have consistently aimed to expand our energy imports from the United States. This cooperation has grown steadily over the last decade. The current U.S. administration has shown interest in further deepening this partnership,” he added.
Trump’s recent comments come at a sensitive time, as Washington and New Delhi continue discussions over a new trade deal. They also follow the U.S. decision to impose 25% tariffs on India about two months ago, reportedly in response to India’s continued oil purchases from Russia.
Trump said he now plans to urge China to take similar steps to reduce its imports of Russian energy, as the U.S. seeks to cut Moscow’s oil revenues amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.
India, meanwhile, has repeatedly maintained that its energy imports are based on national interests and the need to ensure affordable energy for its citizens. New Delhi continues to balance relations with both Washington and Moscow while pursuing a diversified energy policy to meet its growing domestic demand.
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