India eyes Venezuelan upstream & downstream energy sectors; Modi-Gomez explore partnership in critical minerals & mining too

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held extensive talks with Venezuela's acting President Delcy Eloina Rodriguez Gomez on forging a long-term energy partnership, as India continues efforts to diversify its crude oil supply sources to bolster energy security.

Modi, during the meeting with Delcy, signalled India's willingness to build stable and long-term energy ties with Venezuela, encompassing the upstream and downstream sectors, people said.

Both leaders also explored deeper cooperation in critical minerals and mining sectors. The discussions also covered expanding commercial engagement in pharmaceuticals, animal husbandry, transportation, and agriculture for building a strong economic foundation, the people said.


Later, oil minister Hardeep Puri called on Gomez with top officials and CMDs of state-run energy companies. A technical team from India will visit Venezuela soon to further explore potential. Indian oil companies present in Venezuela are looking to explore newer opportunities, as per Puri.

At a press briefing, Rudrendra Tandon, secretary (east) in MEA, the PM told the visiting leader that India wants to build an energy partnership with Venezuela.