Rubio pushes for India to buy more U.S., Venezuelan oil

Rubio pushes for India to buy more U.S., Venezuelan oil S. ary of State, UAE FM in Mumbai, holds trilateral talks on trade, energy, and connectivity Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar welcomed U.S. ary of State Antony B. Blinken and the United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed Al‑Khatib to Mumbai on Tuesday for a trilateral meeting that underscored the growing importance of energy diplomacy in South Asia..

The three leaders convened in the city’s international convention centre, where they discussed a range of issues from trade facilitation to renewable‑energy partnerships and regional connectivity initiatives that could reshape the economic landscape of the Indo‑Pacific. Blinken’s presence in India marks a rare high‑level visit, as the United States has traditionally focused its diplomatic outreach on the Middle East and East Asia. delegation, led by Blinken, is keen to secure a foothold in India’s expanding energy market, particularly in light of the country’s urgent need to diversify its sources of oil and gas..

With its vast reserves, Venezuela offers a potential alternative to traditional suppliers, while the United States seeks to promote its own crude and liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. The core of the discussion revolved around the strategic importance of securing a steady supply of U.S. crude for Indian refineries..

Blinken highlighted recent U.S. policy shifts aimed at expanding American participation in the Indian energy mix, citing a new memorandum of understanding that would allow U.S. companies to invest in India’s LNG import terminals..

administration argues that such collaboration will help India meet its burgeoning demand for clean energy while also bolstering regional energy security. Venezuela’s role in the talks emerged as a surprise element, with Jaishankar signalling openness to diversifying India’s oil sources beyond the Gulf. “India’s energy strategy must include a mix of conventional and unconventional suppliers to safeguard against geopolitical shocks,” Jaishankar said..

He emphasised that Venezuela’s relatively low‑carbon crude could be an attractive option for Indian refiners looking to reduce carbon footprints, a move that would align with the country’s commitments under the Paris Agreement. The trilateral meeting also addressed trade barriers that have historically impeded U.S.–Indian commerce. Blinken underscored the need to eliminate tariff and non‑tariff obstacles that hinder the flow of goods and services between the two economies..

He proposed a joint task force to streamline customs procedures and accelerate the approval of high‑value technologies. This initiative is expected to foster greater investment flows and create jobs in both countries, particularly in the technology and manufacturing sectors. In addition to energy and trade, the leaders touched upon infrastructure connectivity, a theme that has gained traction under India’s ‘Act East’ policy..

Sheikh Al‑Khatib outlined the UAE’s interest in investing in Mumbai’s port infrastructure and rail links that would facilitate the movement of goods across the Indian Ocean. The UAE has long been a key partner for India in maritime security and logistics, and the discussion aimed to deepen these ties through joint ventures and public‑private partnerships. The trilateral talks also highlighted the importance of cybersecurity cooperation, especially as the Indo‑Pacific region faces increasing cyber threats..

Blinken proposed a framework for shared intelligence on cyber‑attack trends, while Jaishankar expressed India’s willingness to host joint cyber‑security training exercises. The UAE’s participation is expected to add a valuable dimension, given its robust cyber‑security capabilities and experience in protecting critical infrastructure. has expressed concern over Venezuela’s political instability and the sanctions regime that limits its ability to engage in international trade..

Blinken urged the Indian government to assess the risks associated with Venezuelan oil imports and to ensure compliance with international sanctions. Jaishankar acknowledged the challenge but reiterated India’s commitment to maintaining open dialogue with all partners while upholding global norms. The meeting concluded with a joint statement that reiterated the three countries’ commitment to strengthening economic ties and advancing shared interests in energy, trade, and connectivity..

The declaration also called for regular high‑level dialogues to monitor progress and address emerging challenges. The statement signalled a shift toward a more inclusive and diversified partnership framework that could reshape regional dynamics in the coming years. As India continues to balance its energy needs against geopolitical realities, the outcomes of this trilateral meeting may set a precedent for how emerging economies negotiate complex alliances..

seeks to cement its position as a reliable energy partner, the UAE aims to broaden its investment portfolio, and India looks to secure a stable supply chain that supports its growth ambitions. The success of these negotiations will likely influence future trade agreements, investment flows, and the broader strategic calculus in the Indo‑Pacific region..