Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodríguez will travel to India from June 3 to June 7, 2024 [1], to discuss strengthening energy ties.

The visit comes as India seeks to stabilize its energy security amid regional market disruptions. By expanding cooperation with Caracas, New Delhi aims to diversify its oil sources and ensure a steady supply of crude oil.

Rodríguez is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi [1]. The discussions will focus on bilateral cooperation, and the expansion of energy ties between the two nations [1]. This diplomatic push follows a significant shift in trade patterns, as Venezuela became India's third-largest crude oil supplier this month [2].

The increase in imports reflects India's strategy to ramp up crude oil acquisitions from Venezuela to mitigate the impact of energy market volatility [2]. Officials said the meetings are expected to establish a more formal framework for long-term energy partnerships.

While the visit focuses on economics, it also signals a broader diplomatic opening between the two countries. The coordination between the Venezuelan and Indian governments aims to bolster ties beyond the immediate needs of the oil market [1].

Venezuela became India's third-largest crude oil supplier this month

This diplomatic engagement underscores India's pragmatic approach to energy security, prioritizing resource acquisition over geopolitical alignment. By elevating Venezuela to its third-largest supplier, India is reducing its reliance on traditional energy hubs and leveraging market disruptions to secure favorable crude oil terms.