G7 Summit: Modi raises Indian sailors' deaths in Trump's presence
What's the story
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the deaths of Indian seafarers in a United States military strike at the G7 summit in Evian, France, on Tuesday. Addressing the Outreach Session on "Forging New Partnerships and Rebuilding International Solidarity," the PM said the conflict has caused loss of life and property in friendly countries in the region. "Disruptions to maritime trade through the Strait of Hormuz have adversely affected the global economy," he said.
Maritime incidents
Three Indians died in US attack
He also said several Indian civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. "The safety of seafarers, who connect nations through global maritime trade, is our responsibility. We must ensure that sea routes remain secure and that seafarers can carry out their work without fear," he added. Modi's remarks were made in the presence of G7 leaders, including US President Donald Trump.
Safety
Shift from traditional donor-recipient models
Modi also spoke about the Global South's desire for partnerships instead of assistance, calling for a shift from traditional donor-recipient models. He stressed equality, dignity, and shared responsibility in international cooperation. The PM said, "International partnerships and global solidarity can become meaningful only when we collectively address shared challenges." He highlighted a growing trust deficit in global affairs, stating that "the world does not suffer from a shortage of resources; it suffers from a shortage of trust."
Attack rationale
US Central Command justified actions
The statements come after three Indian nationals died when US forces attacked the Palau-flagged oil tanker Settebello in the Gulf of Oman. The Settebello incident was one of three such cases involving merchant vessels with Indian crew members The US Central Command justified its actions against the vessels by saying they were trying to breach a US blockade of Iranian ports.
Diplomatic response
India lodged strong protest
Last week, India's Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the US Navy's involvement in the attacks and lodged a strong protest. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We attach high importance to the welfare and well-being of our seafaring community." The ministry summoned US Charge d'Affaires Jason Meeks twice to express India's deep concern over these incidents. "We summoned the US Charge d'Affaires and he was conveyed our deepest concern over the ongoing incidents of attacks. We also registered our strong protest."