US Ready To Supply India With As Much Energy As Needed: Marco Rubio Ahead Of India Visit

Washington: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will be on a visit to India from May 23 to May 26. During this time he will visit Delhi, Kolkata, Agra and Jaipur. Speaking to the media in Miami, Rubio said India is our "very good friend and partner". His visit is also special because here he will meet the ministers of Quad countries.

What did Rubio say about working with India?

Rubio said, "We work very well with India. That's why this visit is important. I'm glad we are able to do this because there will be a lot to talk about." He reminded that after becoming the foreign minister, his first meeting was with the Quad. This time the Quad meeting will be held in India on 26 May. It will include Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Japan's Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu and India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar. Jaishankar will preside over the meeting.

What is America's offer regarding energy?

The whole world is facing energy crisis due to America-Iran war. Meanwhile, Rubio made a big offer. He said, "We want to sell as much energy to India as it wants to buy. Currently, oil and gas production in America is at a record level." Rubio said that America wants India to become a major part of its energy portfolio. Negotiations are going on. He also mentioned Venezuelan oil. Actually, Venezuela's interim President Delsey Rodriguez is coming to India next week. There will be talk on selling oil. Rubio himself gave this information.

What is the importance of Kolkata tour?

Rubio will be the first US secretary of State to visit Kolkata after 14 years. Earlier in 2012, Hillary Clinton had come to Kolkata. Let us tell you that the American Consulate General in Kolkata is the second oldest American Consulate in the world.

Why was the India-Venezuela oil deal mentioned?

In early February, President Donald Trump had for the first time talked about India buying oil from Venezuela. Then Washington and Delhi had announced an important trade deal. Under this, the tariff on Indian goods was reduced from 25 percent to 18 percent.

What will happen in the Quad meeting?

The Quad meeting to be held on May 26 is considered very important. The four countries will talk about countering China and maintaining peace in the Indo-Pacific. Besides, energy, trade and security will also be discussed. Rubio said there would be another Quad meeting later this year. Overall, America wants to strengthen its friendship by selling oil to India. There is also a plan to help India through Venezuelan oil.