West Asia crisis: Jaishankar holds crucial talks with foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and UAE

New Delhi. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar informed on social media on Sunday that he discussed the ongoing tensions and conflicts in West Asia with the Foreign Ministers of Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The meeting is considered important for India’s energy security and regional situation amid rising tensions between Iran and the US-Israel axis.

On Saturday night, Jaishankar spoke by phone with UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan. Jaishankar said that with Zayed Al Nahyan, he exchanged views on various aspects of the regional situation. India’s energy security is believed to be a key topic of the conversation.

 The Strait of Hormuz situation:
Global oil and gas prices surged after Iran virtually blocked the Strait of Hormuz, located between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. The route carries about 20 percent of the world’s oil and LNG.

 Indian crude oil tanker sails safely
Despite recent attacks on oil terminals, the Indian-flagged crude oil tanker “Jag Ladki” departed Fujairah, UAE, safely for India. The ship is carrying approximately 80,800 tonnes of Murban crude oil. The ship departed Fujairah at 10:30 am IST and all crew are safe.

Government action
The Indian government said that it is closely monitoring the situation in West Asia and ensuring fuel supply and maritime security in the country. S Jaishankar discussed the tension with the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and UAE. The talks covered India’s energy security and regional situation. The recent situation in the Strait of Hormuz led to a surge in oil and gas prices. Indian tanker ‘Jag Ladki’ safely left Fujairah. The government informed about ensuring fuel supply and maritime security.