Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasised the importance of freedom of navigation and the safety of seafarers in ensuring the smooth movement of global trade.
He highlighted the need for secure and open sea lanes as disruptions to maritime routes can affect supply chains, increase transportation costs and create uncertainty for businesses and consumers.
Seafarers remain central to the global shipping industry, carrying the majority of international trade. Ensuring their safety and welfare is therefore critical to maintaining reliable maritime operations.
The emphasis on freedom of navigation comes amid growing risks to commercial shipping from geopolitical tensions, regional conflicts and disruptions along key maritime routes. Shipping companies have increasingly had to adjust routes and operations in response to security concerns.
India has been advocating stronger international cooperation to keep vital sea lanes safe and open. Secure maritime corridors are particularly important for India given the country’s dependence on seaborne trade for energy, raw materials and manufactured goods.
Strengthening maritime security and protecting seafarers could help improve the resilience of global supply chains while supporting stable and predictable international trade.