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US secretary of state Marco Rubio calls India 'Key Partner'
New Delhi: During his first visit to India, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday described India as a “key partner and excellent ally,” emphasizing that the United States is ready to supply as much oil to India as needed.
Rubio highlighted the significance of his trip, which will also involve meetings with ministers from the Quad nations.
Rubio will be in India from May 23 to 26, visiting Kolkata, Agra, Jaipur, and New Delhi. “We are doing great work together with India. This is an important visit,” he said.
Engagement with Quad Nations
Rubio noted that discussions with representatives from the Quad nations will be a key part of his trip. “We will have a wide range of issues to discuss. We will also hold another Quad meeting later this year,” he said.
Focus on Venezuelan Oil Cooperation
The US secretary also discussed energy cooperation, highlighting opportunities related to Venezuelan oil. He mentioned that Venezuela’s Acting President, Delcy Rodríguez, is expected to visit India next week, creating potential avenues for collaboration.
Rubio noted that US refineries have recently seen a significant increase in the import of heavy crude oil from Venezuela, with over 80 million barrels received earlier this year.
Warning to Iran Over Strait of Hormuz
On the geopolitical front, Rubio issued a stern warning to Iran, stating that Washington will not tolerate any attempt by Tehran to control or monetize access to the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz.
This statement comes amid reports of Iran negotiating a permanent toll arrangement with Oman for vessels transiting the strait, a move Rubio described as a direct threat to global trade and freedom of navigation.
Rising Oil Prices and India’s Response
India, which imports nearly half of its energy needs, has been grappling with rising fuel prices amid global energy tensions. The government recently raised fuel prices twice within four days—by Rs 3 and then by 90 paise—to ease financial pressure on its Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).
Rubio’s visit underscores the growing strategic and energy ties between India and the United States, amid a volatile global oil market and shifting geopolitical dynamics.
