Delcy Rodríguez arrives in Turkey after India tour

Venezuelan acting president Delcy Rodríguez arrived in Turkey on Sunday, concluding a previously unannounced five-day official visit to India. The objectives of her trip to Turkey were not immediately clear, though her arrival in Istanbul was broadcast by state television, showing her being received by Turkish officials, including Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar.

Rodríguez's visit to Turkey comes as the Venezuelan administration seeks to bolster its international standing and expand strategic alliances. This diplomatic push follows political shifts within Venezuela earlier this year. Turkey has historically maintained a close relationship with Caracas, with significant cooperation in energy, agriculture, tourism, and military affairs under both Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro.

Just hours before landing in Turkey, Rodríguez concluded her agenda in Mumbai, India. She described the visit as successful on social media, highlighting meetings with government officials and business representatives. A key event in India was her meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where they discussed energy cooperation and bilateral relations. India has recently increased its oil purchases from Venezuela, navigating logistical challenges amid tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

During her time in India, Rodríguez also focused on sectors such as health, public transport, science, technology, and renewable energy. Venezuela is actively working to revive its oil industry after years of decline attributed to disinvestment, corruption, and international sanctions. The government is pursuing reforms to attract private capital and enhance international partnerships, a strategy now seemingly extended to Turkey.