India's Energy Security Strategy Focused on National Interests, Says MEA

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reiterated on Tuesday that India's efforts towards energy security for its 1.4 billion citizens are firmly rooted in national interests. During a press conference in the national capital, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the importance of diversifying energy sources to ensure affordability. His remarks come amid shifting geopolitical dynamics in West Asia and questions surrounding India's oil purchases from Russia, particularly in light of the discounts offered. He stated, "As far as our energy procurement is concerned, you are well aware that our policy is based on national interest. Our aim is to provide energy to India's 1.4 billion people at affordable rates from various sources. I have reiterated this multiple times, and this will remain our stance." With ongoing global concerns regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Jaiswal provided reassuring updates on maritime traffic. Since the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on June 17, at least 11 vessels, including three crude oil tankers flying the Indian flag, have successfully navigated this critical route.

Jaiswal confirmed that "traffic is ongoing." He noted that 10 Indian-flagged vessels that were previously stranded in the area have resumed their journeys and are expected to cross the strait soon. He detailed that these vessels include three Indian-flagged crude oil tankers, each carrying 285,000 metric tons of crude oil; one LPG carrier with a foreign flag; one foreign-flagged crude oil tanker; and six bulk carriers under foreign flags loaded with fertilizer. He expressed optimism that the remaining Indian-flagged vessels would also soon traverse the Strait of Hormuz.

Currently, a meeting of the BRICS National Security Advisors (NSA) is taking place in the capital, serving as a platform for crucial bilateral discussions. Jaiswal confirmed that India's NSA met with his Iranian counterpart to review the unstable situation in West Asia. The discussions encompassed all aspects of India-Iran bilateral relations, including ongoing cooperation at the strategically significant Chabahar port. He stated, "Our National Security Advisor met with his Iranian counterpart, who is here to participate in the BRICS NSA meeting. Both sides reviewed the current situation in West Asia and discussed various aspects of the events occurring there. They also talked about cooperation under the BRICS framework and various facets of India-Iran bilateral relations."