LOK SABHA
STARRED QUESTION NO - 292
ANSWERED ON 08.08.2025
RELATION WITH WEST ASIAN COUNTRIES
*292 SHRI K RADHAKRISHNAN
Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the recent geopolitical developments, including the Russia-Ukraine war, conflict in West Asia and sanctions imposed by Western countries, have had any impact on India’s diplomatic and economic relations with affected countries, if so, the details thereof;
(b) the details of the steps taken by the Government to safeguard the country’s strategic and energy interests amid global tensions;
(c) whether the Government has raised concerns with countries like the United States regarding the impact of sanctions on India’s petroleum imports from Russia and Iran, if so, the details thereof; and
(d) the measures taken by the Government to ensure safety and repatriation of Indian nationals, including students and workers, from conflict zones during the last year?
ANSWER
THE MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
(DR. SUBRAHMANYAM JAISHANKAR)
(a) to (d) A statement is laid on the table of the House.
STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (A) TO (D) IN RESPECT OF LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 292 FOR REPLY ON 08.08.2025 REGARDING RELATIONS WITH WEST ASIAN COUNTRIES ASKED BY SHRI K RADHAKRISHNAN
(a) to (d) Government constantly monitors all geopolitical developments having a bearing on India’s national interest and responds appropriately to their impact with a view to safeguarding India’s interests at bilateral, regional and global levels. Government has also stated its readiness to contribute to efforts for mitigation and resolution of conflicts through diplomacy and dialogue.
Government considers energy security to be among its top priorities and has taken all necessary steps to ensure access to affordable energy for the people of India. Government pursues a multi-pronged strategy that includes diversifying supply sources, enhancing domestic production of oil & gas, expanding the adoption of alternate energy sources and advancing the energy transition.
Government’s decisions on international energy sourcing are based on diverse market factors, including pricing and availabilities and keeping in mind India’s national interests and priorities. Necessary steps are also taken to sensitize all relevant stakeholders regarding any developments that could impact them. Government also remains engaged with the concerned countries on this matter.
Government accords the highest priority to the safety, security and well-being of Indian nationals abroad. It has engaged with all relevant players including governments of other countries, to facilitate safe return of Indian nationals. Government’s actions, including issuance of appropriate advisories through Indian Missions/Posts abroad, operating 24x7 helplines, engaging with Indian nationals through social media platforms, and undertaking evacuation, where necessary etc., have been guided by the evolving situation in conflict zones.
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