India and Venezuela on Thursday held high-level talks to strengthen bilateral ties, with a major focus on energy security and boosting economic cooperation across various sectors. During a special MEA briefing on the visit of Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodriguez, Secretary (East) Rudrendra Tandon said the visiting leader was accompanied by a large ministerial delegation and held official discussions, including a working lunch, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Tandon highlighted that Venezuela has emerged as India’s third-largest crude oil supplier this month, adding that both sides focused on building a stronger long-term energy partnership. He noted that India and Venezuela share “perfect complementarity” in the energy sector, covering both upstream and downstream activities, with Venezuela viewing India as a reliable long-term demand partner.

Apart from energy, discussions also covered expanding economic engagement in sectors such as mining, animal husbandry, transportation, agricultural equipment, automobiles, and pharmaceuticals. Tandon described Venezuela as a resource-rich nation moving toward sustained economic growth, offering significant opportunities for Indian businesses and investments.

Describing the talks as “businesslike and substantive,” Tandon said the Venezuelan side appreciated India’s consistent support during both difficult and prosperous times. The MEA further stated that Venezuela considers India a preferred partner for the future, reflecting the growing strength and continuity of bilateral relations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Acting President Delcy Rodriguez held wide-ranging discussions on expanding cooperation in energy, trade, investment, healthcare, and the automotive sector. According to MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, the leaders also exchanged views on regional and global issues and reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing the interests of the Global South.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from YouTube/MEA.