US Consulate Asks BPT to Stop Russian Ships, South Block Objects

India has taken exception to the suggestion by the US Consulate (Mumbai) that Russian ships should not be allowed at Mumbai port and has asserted that it is New Delhi’s sovereign right to deal with global partners on national interests.

The surprise move has raised eyebrows at the South Block here as the US Consulate General in Mumbai wrote directly to the Mumbai Port Authority last month asking it to not allow Russian vessels to dock at the port because of American sanctions against Russia.

The Mumbai Port Authority has, in turn, written to the Directorate General of Shipping, which has asked the Ministry of External Affairs for instructions.

It is India’s sovereign decision to engage with countries in national interests. The US later said the conversation with India was a private one.

India has not only emerged as the key importer of oil from Russia to meet its growing needs but also looking to expand its presence in oil assets of Far East Russia. Russia has launched chartered vessel to supply critical raw material to India besides operationalisating International North South Transport Corridor to boost bilateral trade.