'Only India has lost mariners': MEA at Iran war talks
What's the story
India has called for the resumption of free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz during a multilateral meeting convened by the United Kingdom. The meeting was attended by over 60 countries, with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri representing India. He emphasized that India is the only nation to have lost mariners in recent attacks on merchant shipping in this vital waterway.
Diplomatic stance
Misri emphasizes on India's energy security during meeting
During the meeting, Misri reiterated India's position that diplomacy is the best way forward in resolving the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Misri further "emphasized the impact of the crisis on India's energy security and the fact that India remains the only country to have lost mariners in attacks on merchant shipping in the Gulf," the ministry said in a statement. According to the Directorate General of Shipping, at least three Indian seafarers on foreign-flagged vessels have been killed.
Regional engagement
India in touch with regional players to ensure safe transit
India is also in touch with regional players like Iran to ensure safe transit through the Strait of Hormuz. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that six Indian ships have safely crossed the strait due to these efforts, "and we continue to be in touch with relevant parties." However, reports of toll-like arrangements with Iran for Indian-flagged ships were dismissed by the MEA during a press interaction.
Meeting details
US absent from the meeting
Notably, the United States was absent from this meeting. UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, who chaired the meeting, said the talks showed "the strength of our international determination" to reopen Hormuz. She added that "unsustainable" spikes in oil and food prices are affecting households and businesses globally due to Iran's actions in hijacking an international shipping route.