'Our oil beneficial for Indian economy': Russian Ambassador reacts to Trump's claim

NEW DELHI: Russian Ambassador to India DenisAlipovon Thursday stressed the importance of Russias oil supplies to India , describing them as very beneficial and aligned with Indias national interests. Addressing questions here about Indias continued purchase of Russian energy amid repeated pressure from US President Donald Trump,Alipovemphasisedthat the Indian governments decisions are driven by its own priorities. The Indian government is acting, having in mind the national interests of this country in the first place, and our cooperation is very much in tune with those interests,Alipovsaid. Energy choices guided by consumer interest: India after Trump claims Modi assured halt to Russian oil Responding to comments linking Indias energy choices with its ties to the United States, the ambassador stressed that India-Russia relations are bilateral and not directed against anyone. He pointed out the consistent uptick in thebusiness ties between the two countries in recent yearsand said that the overallrelationshipis expanding steadily. Regardingtheupcoming visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to India in December,Alipovsaid that preparations are at an advancedstage, with a comprehensive agenda covering multiple agreements. We are looking forward to a productive visit, he added. His comments came in the wake of US President Donald Trumps statement on Wednesday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had told him India would stop buying oil from Russia-- a move Trump called a big step in efforts to economically isolate Moscow.