Foreign Minister Explains Why India Is Purchasing Russian Oil: "My Moral Duty To"
Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar responded forcefully to criticism on Tuesday on India's decision to purchase Russian oil during the conflict in Ukraine by defending the action.
During a meeting with the Indian diaspora in Bangkok, Mr. Jaishankar stated that every nation would strive to secure the best deal possible to mitigate rising energy prices. India is doing the same thing.
He claimed that gas and oil prices are out of control and that many traditional suppliers are switching to Europe as a result of the continent's declining Russian imports. In answer to a question, Mr. Jaishankar stated, "Europe is buying considerably more from the Middle East and other sources who would have supplied to India."
"Currently, every nation will naturally attempt to secure the best possible terms for its inhabitants and lessen the impact of the high cost of energy. Exactly that is what we are doing "the foreign minister replied.
The Foreign Minister emphasized that India is not acting defensively in doing this. He added that the Indian populace cannot afford the high energy prices and that the nation has been transparent and honest about its interests.
"I live in a nation where the average annual income is $2,000. Individuals who can afford increasing energy prices are not such people. I have a moral and legal obligation to make sure I secure the greatest possible agreement for them, "Mr. Jaishankar added.
He claimed that the US and other nations are aware of India's position and will "go on with that."
On numerous occasions in the past, the Foreign Minister has defended India's imports of Russian oil on public stages. He had previously stated during a 2+2 ministerial dialogue in the US in April that India's oil buy from Russia in a month is probably less than what Europe does in an afternoon.
Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February, India has increased its purchases of Russian oil, reaching a record high of about 950,000 barrels per day in June, according to statistics from Reuters.
