Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday described Venezuela as a valued partner in Latin America. He said India-Venezuela cooperation holds significant importance for the Global South.
Following his meeting with Venezuela's Acting President Delcy Rodriguez, PM Modi highlighted the broad scope of discussions held between the two leaders.
Taking to X, PM Modi posted, "Happy to meet with the Acting President of Venezuela, Ms. Delcy Rodríguez. We had extensive discussions on expanding our cooperation in energy, critical minerals, technology, agriculture, health and people-to-people ties."
"As a valued partner in Latin America, our close cooperation with Venezuela holds immense importance for the Global South. We will continue to work together for the mutual benefit of the people of our nations," the post read.
Rodriguez met Prime Minister Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, and other senior officials attended the meeting.
MEA Secretary (East) Rudrendra Tandon described the discussions as substantive, productive, and business-oriented. He noted that Rodriguez is visiting India from June 3 to 6 with a large Ministerial delegation representing foreign affairs, communication, finance, science and technology, and transportation.
Tandon said Venezuela possesses some of the world's largest oil reserves, while India remains a rapidly expanding energy consumer. He noted that Venezuela has emerged as India's third-largest supplier in spot oil purchases this month.
Rudrendra Tandon said both sides explored the possibility of building a long-term energy partnership across the upstream and downstream sectors.
Tandon added that Venezuela views India as a dependable source of future energy demand and sees strong complementarities between the two economies.
The discussions also covered mining, animal husbandry, transportation, agricultural equipment, automobiles, and pharmaceuticals.
Both sides examined ways to facilitate Indian business participation in the Venezuelan market.
Tandon said the Venezuelan delegation acknowledged India's support during both difficult and favourable periods. He added that Venezuela regards India as a preferred partner for the future, reflecting the warmth and strength of the longstanding bilateral relationship.