Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing an outreach session at the G7 Summit in Evian-les-Bains, France, emphasized the critical importance of ensuring the safety and security of global maritime routes. His urgent call came days after three Indian seafarers tragically lost their lives during a US military strike in the Gulf of Oman.
PM Modi's Call for Maritime Safety
Modi conveyed to G7 leaders, including US President Donald Trump, that countries must guarantee seafarers can perform their duties without fear and that vital maritime passages remain secure. He highlighted how disruptions to maritime trade, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, have adversely affected the global economy and led to civilian casualties, including Indians.
The Prime Minister welcomed ongoing peace efforts in West Asia, noting the significant loss of life and property in friendly nations within the region. He reiterated that sustainable solutions to conflicts are only achievable through sustained dialogue, diplomacy, and robust international cooperation.
West Asia Conflict and Global Economy
The context for Modi's remarks included a US Central Command report earlier in June, stating it had disabled three vessels allegedly attempting to violate a US blockade of Iranian ports. This incident underscores the volatility in regions crucial for global trade. Modi raised these concerns ahead of his bilateral discussions with President Trump at the summit.
Beyond maritime security, Prime Minister Modi also voiced the aspirations of the Global South, advocating for partnerships rooted in dignity rather than a simple donor-recipient dynamic. He called for a shift towards working as equal partners to address global challenges.
Bilateral Engagements at G7
On the sidelines of the G7 Summit, Prime Minister Modi engaged in several key bilateral meetings:
- He met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss strengthening India-UK ties across trade, technology, innovation, defense, and clean energy.
- Discussions with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan focused on the West Asia situation, emphasizing dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for international law to ensure regional peace and stability. They also reviewed the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and the UAE.
- Modi also held productive talks with leaders from South Korea, Egypt, Japan, and Kenya, reinforcing India's commitment to deepening cooperation and addressing shared concerns with these nations.
India participated in the G7 summit as a guest country, alongside member nations Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, the US, and the European Union.