Mumbai: United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio lauded India as a global “refining superpower” on Tuesday, emphasizing the country’s critical role in meeting global energy demands. Speaking to reporters upon his arrival in Mumbai for a three-day visit, Rubio highlighted Washington’s intent to collaborate closely with Indian conglomerates, particularly Reliance Industries, regarding the refining of Venezuelan crude oil.
Addressing questions about India’s potential to stabilize global energy markets, Rubio stated, “India is a refining superpower. It possesses the capability to process heavy crude oil. It has done this in the past, and I believe that as more and more Venezuelan oil enters the market, it can do so again.”
He elaborated that India already holds oil leases in Venezuela, which could be utilized to boost production. “While I am not claiming that Venezuela alone can fill the void created by certain global events, I think over time it can certainly do so, and in the short term, it can definitely help,” he explained.
Rubio confirmed that the US delegation would engage in detailed discussions with Reliance Industries about Venezuelan oil production. Acknowledging potential hurdles such as sanctions, he added, “We have discussed this with India in the past, and they appear ready and willing. There might be some obstacles in the form of sanctions, which we will have to overcome together.” He also praised India for making significant and sensible strides in diversifying its oil purchases.
On Wednesday, October 21, the US Secretary of State is scheduled to visit the Reliance Industries Limited refineries in Jamnagar, Gujarat, which stands as the world’s largest single-location refinery complex. During this visit, he is expected to hold a high-profile meeting with Reliance Chairman Mukesh Ambani to discuss energy and trade relations.
Beyond energy cooperation, Rubio expressed strong optimism regarding the long-pending India-US trade agreement. “I would say we are very close to finalizing the agreement. Only a few things are left to be sorted out, so I think it will be done soon,” he noted, signaling a potential breakthrough in bilateral economic ties.
Earlier on Tuesday, Rubio met with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in Mumbai. The meeting, which was also attended by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, focused on strengthening the comprehensive bilateral relationship between the two nations.