India's petroleum ministry has refuted reports that an Iranian crude oil cargo ship was diverted to China due to payment issues.
The ministry stated that the reports were 'factually incorrect' and that Indian refiners have secured crude oil from Iran without any payment hurdles.
Citing 'trade optimisation and operational flexibility', the ministry explained that cargo ships can change course mid-voyage.
India imports crude oil from over 40 countries, with companies having full flexibility to source oil from different sources and geographies based on commercial considerations.
The ministry also reiterated that India's crude oil requirements remain 'fully secured' for the coming months.
Additionally, the ministry addressed claims related to LPG supply, stating that an Iranian LPG vessel berthed at Mangalore and is currently discharging.
