India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has raised serious concerns over the growing number of attacks on commercial ships and seafarers in key waterways, including the Gulf, Red Sea and Black Sea.
Speaking at the first meeting of the Group of Friends on Safety and Security of Shipping and Seafarers during the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, Jaishankar said such incidents were no longer isolated events. He described them as part of a growing pattern that is creating risks for sailors and international trade.
During the meeting, India and Liberia announced a new collaboration aimed at strengthening maritime safety and security. The initiative will provide a platform for countries and other key stakeholders to discuss challenges affecting commercial shipping and seafarers.
Jaishankar said the partnership would also focus on improving safety standards and strengthening cooperation to protect ships and their crews. He stressed that countries must work together to ensure that international shipping routes remain safe and secure.
The minister referred to several recent incidents involving commercial and civilian vessels. These included the fatal incident involving an Indian sailor aboard the MV Cape Dao in the Gulf of Oman and the disappearance of a crew member from the oil tanker El Gaia in the Strait of Hormuz.
He also pointed to attacks involving civilian vessels such as the MV Omorfi and MV Golden Leo in the Black Sea. According to Jaishankar, such incidents put the lives of seafarers at risk while also creating disruptions to global trade and supply chains.
Jaishankar called for stronger international cooperation to prevent further attacks and improve maritime security. He said the safety of seafarers must remain an important part of discussions on global security and international trade.
India has a large community of seafarers working on commercial vessels around the world, making maritime safety an important concern for the country. Any disruption to major shipping routes can also affect the movement of goods, energy supplies and other essential products.
Jaishankar is in New York as the head of India’s delegation for the UN General Assembly’s High-Level Week. He is also scheduled to address the main session of the UN General Assembly as part of India’s participation in the global discussions.