<span style="color: #222222;">Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has flagged concerns over the increasing crude oil prices and its impact on consumers as well as on smart economic recovery. He emphasised that high crude prices are adding significant inflationary pressure on India. The Minister stated this during a high level consultation meeting with OPEC Secretary General Dr. Mohammad Sanusi Barkindo today. </span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">Both sides discussed recent oil market developments, trends in oil demand recoveries, economic growth forecasts and overcoming energy challenges among other issues of mutual interest. Mr Pradhan reiterated his request of phasing out production cuts and also emphasised that crude prices should remain within a reasonable band, which will be in the collective interests of both consumers and producers. </span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">He also conveyed his deep appreciation to OPEC, Secretary General and key partner countries for their support to India during the second wave of the COVID pandemic. Mr Pradhan expressed happiness on OPEC's analysis which shows that India will be the fastest growing emerging market economy in 2021.</span><br />''  <br />