“Best deal”: Jaishankar defends India’s crude oil imports from Russia

Aug 17,2022:External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that Indians cannot afford to pay high prices for oil and hence, the country has continued its crude oil deals with Russia.
“We have been very open and honest about our interests. I have a country with a per capita income of USD 2000. These are not people who can afford higher energy prices. It’s my moral duty to ensure the best deal”, Jaishankar said.
In April, US Secretary of State Antony J Blinken urged India not to buy additional Russian oil. He said, “When it comes to oil purchases, sanctions, et cetera, I just note that there are carve-outs for energy purchases. Of course, we’re encouraging countries not to purchase additional energy supplies from Russia. Every country is differently situated and has different needs and requirements. But we’re looking at allies and partners not to increase their purchases of Russian energy.”
In response, Jaishankar said that India’s total purchase for the month would be less than what Europe buys in an afternoon.