New Delhi. The Munich Security Conference in Germany saw a debate between India and the US over oil purchases from Russia. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that India has assured not to buy additional oil from Russia. In response to this, India’s Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar clarified that India takes decisions based on its national interests and strategic autonomy and will not come under any external pressure.
US claims and background
Due to the Russia-Ukraine war, Western countries have imposed many economic sanctions on Moscow. In this context, America is putting pressure on partner countries to purchase oil from Russia. Marco Rubio said that India has indicated not to buy additional Russian oil. According to reports, some Indian companies are currently staying away from fresh purchases for April deliveries, although no final policy change has been announced on this.
What is India’s clear stand?
S Jaishankar said in a session of the conference that India’s energy policy is dictated by practical factors such as availability, cost and risk. He reiterated that India does not take decisions under external pressure, but gives priority to its national interests. According to him, the global energy market is complex and oil companies will take decisions only which are in the interest of the country and consumers.
message of strategic autonomy
India has long followed a policy of “strategic autonomy”, which means that it is not completely aligned with any single power group. Jaishankar also indicated that India reserves the right to take decisions that may differ from the Western view.
Energy security vs geopolitics
India is one of the world’s largest oil importers. In such a situation, cheap and stable supply is very important for him. India has benefited economically from getting oil from Russia at concessional rates. At the same time, the priority of America and Europe is to maintain pressure on Russia. The statements made at the Munich conference show that India is trying to pursue its interests in a balanced manner amidst the global balance of power.
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