Jaishankar Highlights Threats to Shipping at G20 Meeting
India's External Affairs Minister emphasizes the urgent need to protect maritime navigation amid rising attacks on vessels in the Middle East.
Jaishankar calls for safeguarding freedom of navigation at G20.
Recent attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz raise safety concerns for Indian seafarers.
India and Liberia initiate a joint effort to protect maritime workers.
During the G20 foreign ministers' meeting, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed serious concerns regarding the increasing attacks on civilian shipping and seafarers in the Middle East, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz. He underscored the pressing need to ensure freedom of navigation, which is critical for global trade and security. Jaishankar's statements come in light of recent incidents that have threatened the safety of Indian nationals working at sea.
Jaishankar pointed out that the Global South is disproportionately affected by these maritime threats, which have significant implications for the availability and pricing of essential commodities such as fuel, food, and fertilizers. He emphasized that these attacks not only jeopardize the safety of seafarers but also disrupt supply chains that are vital for economic stability in developing nations.
In his remarks, Jaishankar highlighted the necessity of adhering to international laws, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to protect maritime navigation. He announced a collaborative initiative between India and Liberia aimed at enhancing the safety of seafarers in response to the escalating risks in the region. This initiative reflects a commitment to uphold the rights and safety of those working in maritime industries.
The urgency of Jaishankar's message was underscored by recent attacks on vessels, including the Panama-flagged oil tanker MT LOUISE 1, which was targeted with explosives while carrying 27 Indian seafarers. Fortunately, all crew members aboard two tankers involved in separate incidents on October 29 and 30 were reported safe, as confirmed by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. He reassured the public that there were no injuries among the Indian seafarers involved in these attacks.
Looking ahead, Jaishankar's call to action at the G20 meeting signals a critical moment for international cooperation in maritime security. The Indian government is likely to pursue further diplomatic efforts to address these threats and ensure the safety of its seafarers, while also advocating for the rights of developing nations to industrialize without facing market distortions and supply chain weaponization.
