Iran Sought Docking For 3 Ships On Feb 28, India Approved On March 1: EAM Jaishankar

New Delhi: India has expressed deep concern over the ongoing Iran-America conflict in West Asia. External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said in the Rajya Sabha on Monday that the current situation is very worrying and India wants the path of dialogue and diplomacy to be adopted to reduce tension. He said that India clearly believes that peace, restraint and security of civilians should be ensured in the region.

What is India's priority?

Jaishankar said that the biggest concern of the government is the safety of about one crore Indian citizens living in West Asia. Of these, more than eight million people live in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. India is in constant touch with the governments of these countries to ensure the safety of Indian citizens and to bring them back safely if needed.

Are Iranian warships allowed in India?

Jaishankar said that Iran had sought permission for three of its warships to come to Indian ports, which was approved on March 1. One of these warships, IRIS Lavan, reached Kochi on 4 March and its crew was given facilities by the Indian Navy. He said that this step was taken on humanitarian grounds and Iran has also expressed gratitude to India for this.

What is the concern regarding energy security?

He said that the current situation can also become a challenge for India's energy security. Due to the war, the price of crude oil in the international market has reached above $ 100 per barrel. Also, concerns about global oil supply have increased due to Iran tightening control over the Strait of Hormuz. India imports about 85 percent of its oil needs and about half of it comes through this route.

Will trade and supply chain be affected?

Jaishankar said that there is annual trade of about 200 billion dollars between India and the countries of West Asia. In such a situation, instability in the region and disruption in the supply chain are matters of serious concern for India. He said that the government is taking steps to secure the energy needs of the country keeping in mind the availability, price and risks of the energy market.

Is India in constant touch?

He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to the leaders of UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan and Oman. These countries have assured they will give priority to the safety of Indian citizens. India is also in constant touch with America through diplomatic channels and is keeping an eye on the situation.

The government says that stability in West Asia is very important for India and hence India is continuously appealing to all parties to reduce tension and find a solution through dialogue.