India, the world's third-largest oil importer and consumer, discussed with the Secretary-General of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Haitham Al-Ghais, on Friday the recent fluctuations in the global oil market and its trends, and the impact on energy stability, according to a government statement.

The statement stated that Indian Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri pointed out the importance of balancing realism with market stability and affordability during a phone call with the Secretary-General of OPEC.

For its oil needs, India relies on imports from more than 85% of oil producers in the Middle East, especially members of OPEC, on whom it depends to meet the bulk of its oil imports.