Member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha Sanjay Dina Patil has emphasised that the protection of diplomatic and consular missions is essential to international relations, sovereign equality, peace and security. He said this while delivering India’s national statement at the United Nations General Assembly 81st Session, Sixth Committee, on ‘Protection, Security and Safety of Diplomatic and Consular Missions and Representatives.’ He also underscored States’ obligations under the Vienna Conventions to protect mission premises and safeguard the person, freedom and dignity of diplomatic agents.

The Lok Sabha MP also expressed concern over incidents of vandalism, threats, harassment, assaults, hostile drone over flights, arson and online dissemination of diplomats’ personal information. He stressed that accountability, effective investigations and prosecution of perpetrators are indispensable to preventing further violations. Further, he highlighted India’s commitment to ensuring a safe environment for diplomatic missions and called for greater international cooperation, wider adherence to relevant conventions and a balanced, comprehensive approach.