India, Venezuela agree to expand cooperation across key sectors after Modi-Rodriguez talks

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the talks covered multiple areas of engagement between the two countries and focused on strengthening existing partnerships while exploring fresh avenues of collaboration. “The leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations and explored new avenues of cooperation in energy, trade, investment, healthcare, automobiles among others,” the MEA said in a statement. The leaders also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.

The ministry said both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the India-Venezuela partnership and advancing the interests of the Global South, reflecting a shared emphasis on stronger cooperation among developing nations.

The meeting at Hyderabad House came amid growing engagement between the two countries in the energy sector, which continues to be a cornerstone of bilateral ties. Ahead of the visit, the MEA had indicated that discussions would focus on areas including energy security, trade and investment, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, transportation and renewable energy.

Rodriguez arrived in India on Wednesday on a five-day working visit accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising ministers responsible for foreign affairs, economy and finance, science and technology, communication and information, and transportation. The visit is aimed at broadening bilateral engagement and identifying new areas for collaboration.

India and Venezuela have traditionally maintained warm relations, particularly in the energy sector. The relationship has assumed greater importance in recent months as India has increased crude oil imports from Venezuela, with both countries seeking to deepen cooperation in upstream and downstream energy activities while expanding engagement in healthcare, technology and industrial development. UNI