<span style="color: #222222;">Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan spoke to Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak and conveyed his concern on the growing crude oil price volatility during the last few weeks. <br />'' <br />'' During a telephonic conversation last evening Mr Pradhan urged Mr. Novak to continue to play a balancing role in Russia's engagement with OPEC countries by taking into account the interests of consuming countries. <br />'' <br />'' An official release said, the two leaders deliberated upon the way ahead to further strengthen India-Russia energy co-operation and making hydrocarbon sector an important pillar of India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. <br />'' <br />'' Mr Pradhan reviewed the investments in hydrocarbon sector recognizing that the two countries are one of the largest investors in each others' hydrocarbon sector. <br />'' <br />'' He invited Russian oil and gas companies to invest in building gas infrastructure in India and in the expansion of city gas distribution networks. <br />'' <br />'' Both Ministers agreed to work closely in the coming months to develop a more comprehensive hydrocarbon engagement, keeping in view a long-term perspective.</span><br />