Russia not major supplier, India always exploring all options: MEA on buying discounted oil from Russia
The statement came after there were reports that India is accepting Moscow’s offer of discounted crude oil and getting closer to establishing an alternative payment system in order to maintain trade with Russia.
Total Views |
New Delhi, Mar 18: There have been several speculations on India buying crude oil from Russia amid the Ukraine-Russia talks. The Ministry of External Affairs put these speculations to rest and said the country is “always exploring all possibilities in the global energy markets” to bring oil home.
The statement came after there were reports that India is accepting Moscow’s offer of discounted crude oil and getting closer to establishing an alternative payment system in order to maintain trade with Russia. MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said in a media briefing, "India does import most of its oil requirements. So it's met by imports. So, we are always exploring all possibilities in global energy markets, because of this situation that we face of importing our oil requirement."
The spokesperson also clarified that Russia is a major supplier for India in terms of oil. "I don't think Russia has been a major supplier. But as regards the specific query, I think it was implicit in both of them of imports of energy from Russia. Let me just highlight that a number of countries are doing so, especially in Europe, and for the moment I'll leave it at that."
Also Read: India to buy cheap oil and gas from Russia via Rupee-Rubel transaction
When asked if India intends to import more Russian oil, he repeatedly said, "A number of countries in the world are doing so especially in Europe. As I said, we are always exploring possibilities in global energy markets."
He also spoke about restrictions being imposed by Beijing amid a resurgence of Covid-19, a move that is delaying the return of Indians studying in China. “Been taking up this matter with China on numerous occasions since restrictions were imposed, highlighted students' plight and how continuation of restrictions was putting their academic careers in jeopardy.”
Also Read: India buying Russian oil at discount will not be in violation of US sanctions: White House
“But let me clarify that till date, the Chinese side has not given any categorical response about the return of Indian students. We'll continue to urge China to adopt a congenial stance in the interest of our students and that they facilitate an early return to China,” he added. When asked about Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi’s likely visit to India, Bagchi said he did not have any information to share on this at this moment.