India urges stronger protection for freedom of navigation at UN Security Council

UNITED NATIONS: India has called for stronger international efforts to protect freedom of navigation and keep major sea routes secure, highlighting the wider impact of maritime disruptions on energy supplies, food security and global trade.

Speaking at a United Nations Security Council Arria-Formula meeting on September 18, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni, said maritime security was closely linked to international peace and economic stability.

India supported a free, open, secure and rules-based maritime domain and said rights and freedoms of navigation and overflight should be respected in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

India also stressed that commercial vessels should not become targets during geopolitical tensions. It called for practical arrangements to ensure the continued movement of essential commercial and humanitarian supplies during periods of crisis.

The Indian representative pointed to the wider economic consequences of disruptions at important maritime chokepoints. Such disruptions can put pressure on alternative shipping routes, increase freight and insurance costs and affect energy and food supplies, particularly in developing countries.

The safety of seafarers was another key issue raised by India. New Delhi called for stronger contingency planning covering evacuation, medical assistance, crew changes and repatriation of seafarers operating in conflict-affected areas.

India also highlighted emerging maritime threats, including attacks involving unmanned systems, cyber risks and interference with navigation and communications.

New Delhi said international cooperation, capacity-building and responsible use of technology would be important in addressing these challenges.

India also highlighted its maritime-security efforts in the Indian Ocean region and the role of the Information Fusion Centre–Indian Ocean Region in strengthening maritime domain awareness.

The Indian position focused on building maritime systems that can withstand disruptions before they develop into wider economic and humanitarian crises.

India said it was ready to work with other UN member states to strengthen maritime security, protect seafarers and support uninterrupted international commerce.