New Delhi: Amid rising tensions in West Asia, India has intensified its diplomatic and strategic engagement with Gulf countries, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Tuesday. The move is primarily aimed at ensuring energy security and safeguarding the welfare of the large Indian diaspora living in the region.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated during a media briefing that, under the direction of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is enhancing high-level diplomatic exchanges and engagements with key Gulf nations. The objective is to maintain stability in energy supplies, protect trade interests, and ensure the safety of Indian nationals abroad.
According to the ministry, the External Affairs Minister, National Security Adviser, and other senior officials have been in regular contact with counterparts in Gulf countries in recent days. This intensified diplomatic outreach comes at a time when geopolitical tensions in the region are rising, creating uncertainty in global energy markets.
Government sources indicated that India’s primary focus is to secure uninterrupted supplies of crude oil and natural gas, as a significant portion of the country’s energy requirements is met through West Asia. Additionally, over one crore Indians residing in Gulf countries make diaspora welfare a key pillar of India’s foreign policy.
The MEA further clarified that India is closely monitoring the evolving situation and remains in constant touch with concerned nations to address any potential challenges.
Experts view this growing diplomatic engagement as a crucial part of India’s broader “energy diplomacy” and “diaspora protection strategy,” which has become increasingly important amid shifting global geopolitical dynamics.