New Delhi, September 17: India remains committed to safeguarding energy supplies for its 1.4 billion people and will continue to diversify its sources of energy based on changing market conditions, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday.
The statement came in response to recent developments in the United States concerning legislation targeting Russia and its trading partners in the oil and gas sector.
The US House of Representatives has passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, which would provide the US president with authority to impose additional measures against Russia, including potentially higher tariffs on countries that continue certain forms of trade with Moscow.
Responding to questions on the legislation and its possible impact on India, the MEA reiterated New Delhi’s position that maintaining reliable and affordable energy supplies remains a key priority.
“As stated on several earlier occasions, India remains firmly committed to ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion people,” the ministry said.
The ministry added that the country would continue pursuing diversified sourcing arrangements while taking into account evolving conditions in international markets.
According to the MEA, the issue has been discussed at senior levels with several US interlocutors over recent months. Indian officials have conveyed their concerns about the possible consequences of the proposed measures for both bilateral relations and global energy markets.
The ministry said New Delhi has also made clear that it would take all necessary steps to protect India’s trade and economic interests.
The government will work closely with trade and industry organisations to assess the potential consequences of the developments and formulate an appropriate response, the MEA said.
India’s approach is expected to continue focusing on maintaining stable energy supplies while responding to changes in international trade conditions and regulatory measures affecting energy markets.