Tokyo, April 15: India has expressed serious concerns regarding disruptions in the energy supply chain, emphasizing the need for secure and uninterrupted maritime transport.
During the ADEC Plus meeting hosted by Japan, India highlighted the critical importance of keeping maritime routes safe for the stability of global energy markets. The country stated that any attacks on merchant vessels are completely unacceptable, as they negatively impact both regional and global economies.
Following the meeting, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated on X, “I participated in the ADEC meeting convened by Japan to discuss disruptions in the energy market supply chain. India reaffirmed its commitment to safe and uninterrupted maritime transport.”
He emphasized, “We do not accept any attacks on merchant vessels traversing these maritime routes. Global growth demands that there be no interruptions in energy supply. As a major consumer, India is committed to working with its partners to strengthen the supply chain.”
During the meeting, India stressed the need for collaboration, coordination, and collective efforts to ensure energy security.
The summit, titled ‘Asia Zero Emission Community (ADEC) Plus Online Summit on Energy Resilience’, was addressed virtually by several prominent leaders, including Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Thailand’s PM Anutin Charnvirakul, and Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Tariq Rahman.
In his address, Ibrahim stated, “Malaysia is committed to strengthening regional cooperation through ADEC to ensure a stable, sufficient, and resilient energy supply. As an energy producer, including liquefied natural gas (LNG), Malaysia will continue to play a constructive role in supporting regional energy security while diversifying energy sources, including renewable energy, to strengthen our energy system in line with national development priorities.”
Philippines President R. Marcos Jr. highlighted the vulnerabilities of his country to shocks in the global oil supply. He pointed to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz in February as a significant disruption that led to rising fuel prices.
The Philippine News Agency quoted the President saying, “As an island nation… we are heavily reliant on imported petroleum.” He noted that disruptions in the global supply chain are being “felt acutely” in the country.
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