External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar today raised concerns over repeated attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers in the Gulf, Red Sea and Black Sea, saying that the attacks were no longer exceptional occurrences. Dr Jaishankar was addressing the inaugural meeting of the ‘Group of Friends on Safety and Security of Shipping and Seafarers’ during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The External Affairs Minister announced a new initiative by India and Liberia together to draw greater attention to the safety and security of ships and seafarers. He said India, a major source of seafarers, and Liberia, the world’s largest shipping registry, have joined hands to strengthen maritime safety and security. The initiative aims to establish a consultative framework to enhance maritime security and ensure that key stakeholders have a greater voice in discussions on the sector.

He pointed to the recent attack on the Antigua and Barbuda-flagged bulk carrier MV Cape Dao in the Gulf of Oman, which left an Indian sailor dead. Dr Jaishankar also mentioned the case of the Panama-flagged oil tanker El Gaia, which was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz and led to an Indian crew member being reported missing. The External Affairs Minister also drew attention to attacks on civilian ships in the Black Sea, including those involving MV Omorfi and MV Golden Leo. He said these incidents could no longer be viewed as isolated cases, as commercial ships and sailors have faced a series of attacks across key waterways. He said the attacks on commercial shipping had affected people from several countries, with seafarers of different nationalities also among those killed or affected. Dr Jaishankar said attacks that disrupt maritime trade and claim civilian lives could not be defended, and called on countries to work together to stop such incidents.

The External Affairs Minister is in New York, leading the Indian delegation for the High Level Week at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly. Dr Jaishankar will address the High Level Session tomorrow. During the visit, the Minister has attended various plurilateral and bilateral meetings.