India Monitors West Asia Crisis, Steps Up Gulf Outreach

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): India has issued a major statement regarding the rapidly evolving situation in West Asia and is closely monitoring developments while maintaining active contact with Gulf countries.

During an inter-ministerial briefing on Thursday, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the government’s preparedness. He stated that India is keeping a close watch on the fast-changing developments in the region and is in continuous touch with countries in West Asia.

As part of this engagement, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will visit the United Arab Emirates from April 11 to 12, 2026. During the visit, he will review bilateral cooperation and discuss strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations. This partnership is seen as crucial not only for economic and energy cooperation but also for regional stability and security.

Meanwhile, India is also engaged in high-level talks with other Gulf nations. Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri is visiting Qatar on April 9 and 10, 2026. The visit is considered significant for enhancing energy cooperation and discussing matters of mutual interest.

On the domestic front, Joint Secretary in the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Satya Prakash T. L., stated that although global supply chains for pharmaceutical inputs were affected due to the West Asia crisis, there has been no major increase in medicine prices. Customs duty on 40 petrochemical products has been reduced to zero. The supply of LPG and high-speed diesel is being closely monitored and remains stable. The government continues to coordinate with industry to ensure uninterrupted drug production.