Ramgoolam Shields $100 Oil Surge by Securing New Indian Supply Routes

Mauritius is moving to secure its fuel supply chain through a renewed partnership with India as the escalating conflict in the Middle East threatens to send global oil prices soaring.

Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam confirmed on Tuesday, 3 March, that he is in active discussions with Indian authorities to establish a reliable alternative supply route.

The move comes amid growing fears that the strategic Strait of Hormuz could face a lasting closure, a scenario that would have “heavy consequences” for global oil distribution and prices.

Strategic Shift to India

With market analysts warning that crude oil could spike from $72 to $100 per barrel—or even higher—the Prime Minister is seeking to repair damaged trade ties.

Mr Ramgoolam revealed that he has held in-depth talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to restore a relationship with Mangalore Refinery, which he claimed had been “weakened” by the previous administration.

“Fortunately, Modi supports us and has understood our position,” the Prime Minister stated.

“We want to secure supply and guarantee the best prices for consumers by eliminating the middlemen who increase the price of petroleum products.”

Repatriation Efforts

Beyond energy security, the Prime Minister addressed the immediate safety of Mauritian citizens caught in the regional instability.

Mr Ramgoolam has engaged in a series of telephone diplomatic calls with leaders in the Gulf to ensure the safe return of nationals currently stranded in Dubai and surrounding areas.

He credited the swift resolution of these logistics to “fieldwork” conducted by Riad Hullemuth, the Mauritian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia.

Source: l’Express