India Enhances Multilateral Approach for Energy Security Amid West Asian Tensions
Amid ongoing tensions in West Asia, India bolsters its energy security efforts by diversifying sources, maintaining diplomatic engagement, and ensuring the safety of Indian seafarers. Authorities dismiss evacuation rumors from the UAE and confirm tax exemption for Indian vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.
In response to escalating tensions in West Asia, India is intensifying its engagement with multiple countries to secure a stable energy supply, as confirmed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday. MEA's Official Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized India's multilateral energy strategies while affirming the safety of Indian seafarers in the troubled region.
Addressing an Inter-Ministerial briefing on the current situation in West Asia, Jaiswal reiterated India's stance on energy independence. "We're not reliant on a single source," he stated, underlining ongoing efforts to maintain energy supplies from diverse origins. He also reaffirmed India's commitment to peace, advocating for diplomacy and dialogue in regional conflicts.
Furthermore, Jaiswal discussed the upcoming BRICS Foreign Ministers' meeting in Delhi, highlighting expected representations from member and partner states while reinforcing India's dedication to peace initiatives. In relation to rumors about evacuating Indians from the UAE, Jaiswal urged reliance on official clarifications to dismiss baseless claims.
Opesh Kumar Sharma, Director at the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, confirmed that Indian vessels traversing the Strait of Hormuz have been exempt from taxes recently. He assured that Indian seafarers remain secure, with no recent incidents involving Indian or foreign-flagged ships carrying Indian cargo.
Sharma reported that Indian-flagged vessels have safely navigated the Strait of Hormuz without incurring taxes, thanks to coordinated efforts between MEA and embassies. He noted that approximately 13 Indian ships remain in the region, with authorities closely monitoring the welfare of crew members.
Amid these developments, Iran called on the US to cease its pressure campaign against Tehran. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei outlined demands such as ending the war, lifting blockades, and ensuring maritime security as part of a proposed framework for regional stability.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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