India Exports Fuel to China, First Since 2021

After facing backlash from the US and the EU, India is taking various steps toward re-engagement with China

- RAKESH KUMAR @ New Delhi

In a sign of improving ties between India and China, India-based refiner Nayara Energy has reportedly exported a cargo of diesel to China — marking the first such shipment since 2021.

The development follows years of strained relations between the two countries, particularly after the deadly border clashes in 2020 that led to heightened diplomatic and trade tensions. As per reports, the Russia-linked Nayara Energy loaded nearly 496,000 barrels of ultra-low sulfur diesel at its Vadinar terminal on July 18.

The shipment departed just hours before the European Union announced new restrictions on the Rosneft-backed refinery as part of its ongoing crackdown on Russia's oil trade.