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The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said decisions on energy imports are guided by commercial considerations and India’s long-term energy needs.
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. (PTI file photo)
The Ministry of External Affairs, in a press conference on Thursday, said it remains open to exploring the commercial viability of new crude oil supply options, including from Venezuela, as part of its broader approach to ensuring energy security.
Speaking at a media briefing, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said decisions on energy imports are guided by commercial considerations and India’s long-term energy needs.
The MEA noted that Venezuela has been a long-standing partner for India in the energy sector, spanning both trade and investments. Venezuela was among India’s major crude oil suppliers until FY 2019–20, when imports were discontinued following the international sanctions.
Also Read: Russia vs Venezuela: Whose Oil Reaches India Faster And Which Crude Is Better?
Imports resumed in FY 2023–24 but were again halted after sanctions were re-imposed. The MEA said Indian public sector undertakings have maintained a partnership with Venezuela’s national oil company, PdVSA, and have had a presence in the country since 2008.
Reiterating India’s stance, the ministry said New Delhi remains open to assessing the commercial merits of any new crude supply options, consistent with its energy security strategy.
On Russian Oil
Addressing questions on Russian oil imports, the government reiterated that ensuring the energy security of 1.4 billion Indians remains its highest priority.
It said India’s strategy focuses on diversifying energy sources in line with market realities and changing global dynamics, adding that all decisions on energy sourcing are taken with this objective in mind and will continue to be guided by the same approach.
Also Read: ‘India Free To Buy Oil From Any Country’: Russia Says New Delhi’s Energy Purchases Are Its Own Call
Responding to questions on US tariffs, the government pointed to statements issued by both sides following a telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump.
According to MEA, after the call and President Trump’s subsequent post, the Prime Minister thanked the US President for reducing the reciprocal tariff, noting that Made in India products will now enter the US market at a reduced tariff of 18%.
The government said the trade agreement is expected to significantly boost India’s exports, particularly labour-intensive sectors, while supporting job creation, economic growth and broader prosperity. It added that the US side has also clarified that the final reciprocal tariff rate has been set at 18%.
February 05, 2026, 14:17 IST
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Author: Aman Deep Walia
Aman Deep Walia Founder/Editor-In-Chief Amanopedia News Aman Deep Walia, also known as Aadi, is an Indian media entrepreneur, actor, producer, writer, and director based in Mumbai, India. As the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of AMANOPEDIA News, he leads a fast-growing digital entertainment platform delivering verified industry updates, celebrity features, and cultural commentary across web and social media. With creative credits spanning films, theatre, and advertising. Aman brings a multidisciplinary perspective to storytelling. His work reflects a commitment to authenticity, versatility, and audience-driven narratives across genres. Beyond performance and production, he is actively engaged as a journalist and digital content creator, bridging mainstream cinema with emerging media formats. He has also contributed as a casting director and lyricist, further expanding his creative footprint within the Indian entertainment landscape. Through AMANOPEDIA, Aman continues to position himself at the intersection of journalism, cinema, and digital innovation.
