New Delhi, Mar 9: India favours peace and a return to dialogue and diplomacy amid the widening conflict in West Asia, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said on Monday, stressing the need for restraint, de-escalation and protection of civilians.
Making a suo motu statement in the Rajya Sabha, Jaishankar said the safety and well-being of the Indian community in the region remains the government’s top priority.
“We will continue to work with the governments in the region towards the end,” he said, adding that India’s national interests, including energy security and trade goals, will remain paramount.
The minister also addressed concerns over rising global energy prices triggered by the escalating conflict that began after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran, followed by Tehran’s retaliatory strikes on US bases in neighbouring regions and Israel.
Jaishankar said the government is closely monitoring the situation and remains committed to safeguarding India’s energy security by considering availability, costs and risks in the global energy markets.
“For us, the interest of Indian consumers has and will always be the overriding priority. Where required, Indian diplomacy has supported the endeavours of our energy enterprises in this volatile situation,” he said. (Agencies)
