India a “Great Ally,” U.S. Ready to Expand Energy Sales: Rubio

Darwin, 22 May: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has described India as a “great ally” and indicated that the United States is ready to supply as much energy as New Delhi is willing to purchase, signaling potential expansion in bilateral energy trade.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Rubio said, “We want to sell India as much energy as it will buy.” He added that Washington is already in discussions with New Delhi regarding oil supplies and hopes India will play a “bigger part” in its energy portfolio.

Global Energy Context and U.S.-India Cooperation

Rubio’s remarks come amid shifting dynamics in global oil markets. U.S. refineries have seen increased shipments of Venezuelan heavy crude, and former President Donald Trump previously stated that the United States has imported more than 80 million barrels of Venezuelan oil.

India, which imports a significant portion of its oil and gas requirements, has been affected by rising global energy prices driven by geopolitical tensions, including disruptions in the Middle East. The U.S. is exploring broader energy trade opportunities to support India’s growing energy needs.

Venezuela and Expanding Energy Diplomacy

Rubio also noted that Venezuela’s interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, is expected to visit India next week to discuss potential oil exports. “We also see opportunities with Venezuelan oil,” Rubio said, highlighting efforts to expand energy diplomacy involving multiple suppliers.

Upcoming Visit and Quad Engagement

Rubio is scheduled to visit India from May 23 to 26, with planned stops in Kolkata, Agra, Jaipur, and New Delhi. During the visit, he will meet with counterparts from the Quad — the United States, India, Japan, and Australia — as part of broader discussions on regional security and cooperation. Rubio also emphasized that his first meeting as Secretary of State involved Quad partners, with further engagements planned later this year.

Focus on Energy Security and Defense Cooperation

During the visit, Rubio is expected to discuss energy security, trade relations, and defense cooperation with Indian officials. He stressed that strengthening ties with India remains a key U.S. priority, calling the country a “great partner.”

Rubio also warned that the United States would not tolerate any attempt by Iran to control or monetize access to the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global shipping route. He described ongoing transit discussions in the region as a potential threat to global trade and freedom of navigation.