US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in India during a complex period when America is actively employing the 'diesel diplomacy' tactic amid a global energy crisis. The rise in diesel fuel prices in the US to record levels, caused by disruptions in global supplies and attacks on Russian oil refineries, has exacerbated the situation.
During his visit to Mumbai, Rubio called India a 'superpower in fuel refining.' This occurred in a country that has previously challenged India's energy autonomy through the imposition of tariffs or sanctions.
On October 21, Rubio plans to visit Reliance's largest refinery in the world, located in Jamnagar. This plant processes about 14 million barrels of crude oil daily.
The purpose of Rubio's visit may be to increase supplies to the American market by refining heavy crude oil from Venezuela in India and stimulating the export of Indian diesel fuel. Through negotiations with Reliance, Washington seeks to strengthen energy cooperation and stabilize prices, thereby promoting both trade deals and strategic partnership. Thus, the US has chosen the path of ensuring energy security through practical diplomacy.
'Diesel diplomacy' implies considering the purchase, sale, and supply of oil and its refined products through the lens of diplomatic and strategic interests. India imports crude oil, but thanks to its vast refining capacity, it converts it into products such as diesel fuel, gasoline, and aviation fuel, and sells them on global markets. This capability makes India an important player in global energy. At a time when the US needs diesel fuel now to avoid voter dissatisfaction, including that of President Trump, during midterm elections.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated in Mumbai on Tuesday that India is a 'superpower' in the oil refining sector. He also outlined his intentions. Rubio reported that during the three-day trip, the American delegation will discuss oil extraction in Venezuela with Reliance Industries.
Rubio emphasized that India possesses the experience and capability to refine heavy crude oil. The American official noted that this capability will become even more significant as Venezuelan oil production increases. He stated: 'India is a refining superpower. They have the ability to refine heavy crude oil. They have done it before, and I think that as more oil becomes available from Venezuela, India will be able to do it.'
It should be noted that Venezuela primarily produces heavy and extra-heavy crude oil. It is denser, contains more sulfur, and is more difficult to refine compared to regular crude oil. The refining of this oil can be carried out at the Reliance refinery located in Jamnagar, Gujarat, India.
The main focus of Marco Rubio's visit is on the business of diesel fuel, rather than high diplomatic significance. This is why Rubio is not heading to Delhi. After his stay in Mumbai on Tuesday, he will visit the refinery in Jamnagar, Gujarat, on Wednesday.
Explaining the reason for the trip to Jamnagar, he noted that energy must be refined to be used. He added: 'You have a company with huge refining capacities. I think I should talk to them, especially when different countries are involved.'
Rubio also commented: 'We are going to a company with colossal refining capabilities. It would be perfectly right to talk to them about it.'
For the US, India's refining capacity is important for several reasons. In the context of global conflicts and supply disruptions, the availability of diesel fuel and other petroleum products becomes critically important. Refineries like Jamnagar are capable of processing crude oil of various types and producing large volumes of finished fuel.