Prime Minister Narendra Modi signed agreements with the United Arab Emirates to secure LPG supplies and expand India's strategic energy reserves [1].
These deals strengthen India's energy security by diversifying supply chains and building buffers against global market volatility. As the world's third-largest oil consumer [2], India relies heavily on stable imports to fuel its economic growth.
The agreements were finalized during a visit to Abu Dhabi on May 14 and 15, 2024 [3]. The partnership focuses on securing long-term liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supplies and expanding the nation's strategic crude and gas reserves [1]. These efforts are part of a broader energy push by the UAE valued at $5 billion [4].
Beyond energy, the two nations signed deals regarding defence and infrastructure [3]. The strategic nature of these agreements reflects a deepening bilateral relationship between New Delhi and Abu Dhabi, one that extends into critical security and industrial sectors.
Officials said the cooperation aims to build strategic oil and gas stockpiles to protect India from supply disruptions [1]. The focus on LPG is particularly significant for India's domestic energy needs, as the government continues to expand cooking gas access across the country [4].
The visit included discussions on how the UAE's investment capabilities can support India's infrastructure goals [3]. By linking energy security with defence and trade, the two countries are establishing a comprehensive strategic partnership designed to withstand geopolitical shifts in the Middle East [1].
“India and the UAE signed agreements to secure LPG supplies and expand strategic crude and gas reserves.”
These agreements signal India's shift toward more aggressive strategic stockpiling to mitigate the risk of price shocks or supply interruptions. By partnering with the UAE for both LPG and crude reserves, India is reducing its vulnerability to short-term geopolitical instability while cementing a high-level security and energy alliance with a key Gulf partner.
