International Energy Agency keen to make India full-time member

Paris-based International Energy Agency (IEA) is looking forward to India becoming a full-time member of the agency that advises governments of 29 developed nations.

"Our arms and hearts are open to India," IEA chief economist Fatih Birol told reporters on the sidelines of a workshop in the national capital jointly organised by the IEA, Niti Aayog and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI).

"Before becoming a member, IEA has given enough recognition to India," he added, referring to its plans to bring out the India Energy Outlook report coming November.

IEA is opening up to emerging economies for the first time since its founding four decades ago as a grouping of advanced economies.

Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who was present on the occassion, told reporters that India has its aspirational needs which will be weighed before a decision is made on membership.

"Had a meeting with Chief Economist IEA, along with Vice Chairman Niti Aayog. Agreed to work together on many areas," he tweeted.

"IEA will focus on India for 2015 publication. Chief Economist praised Hon'ble PM's focus & vision for the country," Pradhan added.