Evian: Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the G7 Outreach Summit in France to deliver a strong message on the importance of protecting seafarers and ensuring the safety of global maritime routes, as concerns grow over rising tensions in the Gulf region and their impact on international trade.
Speaking at a session attended by world leaders, including United States President Donald Trump, Modi said that people working at sea should be able to carry out their duties without fear. His remarks came just days after three Indian sailors lost their lives in a military strike on a commercial vessel near Oman, an incident that has drawn attention in India and raised questions about the safety of merchant shipping in one of the world's busiest maritime corridors.
Without directly mentioning the United States or criticizing any country, Modi emphasized that secure shipping routes are essential for the global economy. He said that the world today is facing many challenges and that trust among nations has become one of the most valuable assets. According to him, countries must work together to maintain peace, stability and freedom of navigation in international waters.
The comments were widely seen as a carefully crafted diplomatic message. While India and the United States continue to maintain close strategic relations, the deaths of the Indian sailors have created concern in New Delhi. The Indian government has sought explanations regarding the incident and has stressed the need to ensure the safety of civilian crews working aboard merchant vessels.
Modi also highlighted the broader economic consequences of instability in the Gulf. The Strait of Hormuz, one of the most important waterways for global energy supplies, handles a significant share of the world's oil and gas shipments. Any disruption in the region can affect fuel prices, supply chains and economic growth across continents.
Officials and analysts noted that the Prime Minister's remarks reflected India's growing concern about the human cost of regional conflicts. Thousands of Indian citizens work in the maritime sector and serve on commercial ships operating across the Middle East and other parts of the world. Ensuring their safety has become an increasingly important issue as geopolitical tensions continue to rise.
The statement came during a significant moment in international diplomacy. Modi and Trump met on the sidelines of the summit for their first in person interaction in more than a year. Their discussions were expected to cover a range of issues including trade, regional security, energy markets and developments in West Asia.
Observers said Modi's decision to raise the issue of maritime security during a global gathering allowed India to express its concerns while maintaining a constructive tone. Rather than focusing on blame, the Indian leader framed the issue as a shared international responsibility requiring cooperation among nations.
The deaths of the three Indian sailors have also sparked political debate within India. Opposition parties have called on the government to take a stronger position and seek accountability. They have questioned whether the matter would be directly raised with American officials during the summit. Government representatives, however, have maintained that India is actively engaging through diplomatic channels while prioritizing the welfare of affected families.
Meanwhile, international organizations and maritime experts continue to warn about the risks facing commercial shipping in conflict zones. Recent reports indicate that thousands of seafarers have experienced disruptions due to regional instability, with some crews stranded for extended periods because of security concerns. Shipping companies and governments have been exploring ways to establish safer transit arrangements for vessels operating in high risk areas.
India has already instructed relevant agencies to remain vigilant and coordinate closely with shipping operators and international partners. The Indian Navy and maritime authorities are monitoring developments and maintaining communication with merchant vessels operating near sensitive regions.
At the G7 summit, Modi's broader message extended beyond maritime security. He argued that global cooperation is essential in addressing modern challenges, whether related to conflict, trade, climate change or economic uncertainty. He said that trust and collaboration must guide international efforts if countries are to overcome growing divisions and build a more stable future.
The summit itself has been dominated by discussions on global security and economic risks arising from conflicts in various regions. Leaders have expressed concern about disruptions to energy markets and international commerce, recognizing that instability in one part of the world can quickly affect economies elsewhere.
As the meeting concluded, Modi's remarks on the protection of seafarers stood out as one of India's key messages at the gathering. By drawing attention to the lives of those who keep global trade moving, he highlighted the often overlooked human dimension of international crises.
For India, the issue carries both economic and humanitarian importance. The country remains one of the world's largest suppliers of maritime workers, and the safety of its citizens at sea has become an increasingly urgent concern. The Prime Minister's appeal for secure sea routes and protection for seafarers underscored India's position that global trade and human lives must be safeguarded together, even during periods of international tension.