India Urges Maritime Safety Amidst Persian Gulf Tensions

India's High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswamy, emphasizes India's commitment to maritime safety and the protection of seafarers amid escalating Persian Gulf tensions. Addressing the IMO's 36th extraordinary session, he highlighted the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to prevent attacks on commercial and civilian maritime infrastructure.

In a significant diplomatic address, India's High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswamy, reaffirmed India's dedication to ensuring seafarer safety and the protection of vital maritime routes. Speaking at the 36th extraordinary session of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council in London, Doraiswamy highlighted the precarious situation in the Persian Gulf, urging for a de-escalation via dialogue and diplomacy while emphasizing the importance of civilian safety.

Expressing condolences for the lives lost, including those of three Indian seafarers, Doraiswamy condemned attacks on commercial shipping and maritime infrastructure. He underscored India's proactive role, including a 24x7 helpline for affected seafarers and coordination through the Information Fusion Centre - Indian Ocean Region, to ensure effective response to maritime threats.

Echoing this sentiment, the IMO Council criticized Iran's threats against merchant shipping, urging international coordination to safeguard the Gulf's shipping lanes. The session saw a push for a maritime safety corridor to aid vessel evacuation from high-risk areas, underlining the need for global cooperation to uphold navigational rights and protect seafarers.

(With inputs from agencies.)