India is procuring crude oil from Russia to ensure its national energy security and this position is well understood by many countries, Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra said here on Friday.
His assertion came days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi travelling to Germany to take part in the G-7 summit on June 26-27. The ongoing military action by Russia in Ukraine is likely to come up during the deliberations.
Many western nations have imposed sanctions against Russia. Kwatra justified India’s position while replying to a question on what will be India's approach if New Delhi faces criticism during the upcoming G-7 summit for its procurement of Russian crude oil. The Foreign Secretary said India's consideration for crude oil purchases has been very well understood by the global community. “India's consideration for crude oil purchases is very well understood. It is appreciated across the countries. I do not see that as any point of assuming any pressure,” the Foreign Secretary said. Kwatra also said “whatever are the trading arrangements that India puts in place with regard to the purchase of crude oil all over the world is determined purely by the consideration of energy security in India.” Modi will visit the Alpine castle of Schloss Elmau in southern Germany on June 26 and 27 to attend the annual summit of G7 countries.
From Germany, Modi will travel to the United Arab Emirates(UAE) on June 28 to pay his condolences on the passing away of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the former president of the Gulf nation.
Giving details of the Prime Minister’s schedule at a media briefing, Kwatra said India's regular participation at G-7 summits clearly points to increasing acceptance of the country's role to find a solutions to solve key global challenges. The Foreign Secretary said Russia-Ukraine situation has generated food security crisis over the world.
India has taken a proactive stance that food security of vulnerable countries is addressed and India’s food security is also not impacted. There has been an appreciation of India’s position.
On the Prime Minister’s visit to the UAE on way back to India, Kwatra said India and UAE relations are dynamic, robust and widespread. “Energy security is an important pillar of our relations. People-to-people connect is another aspect.
Security, environment, education and investment are other areas of discussion between the two countries,” he said. The Foreign Secretary said Modi’s visit to the UAE will focus on two main issues. Firstly to pay condolences on the passing away of former UAE President andAbu Dhabi Ruler Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Secondly, to congratulate Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for becoming President of the UAE.
On the issue of controversial remarks against Prophet Mohammad leading to protests in many Gulf countries, Kwatra said almost all Middle East countries have an understanding of India’s position.
“We have communicated our stand on various platforms. I do not think that will be taken forward anymore,” he added. Modi is visiting the country for the first time after the controversy.
The Foreign Secretary also said it will be the Prime Minister’s first meeting at the same time with Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan since his election as the new President of the UAE and the Ruler of Abu Dhabi.
