India's External Affairs Minister urges protection for seafarers amid attacks on shipping

Subra Hammer Ja Shankra, Minister of External Affairs of India, told the United Nations General Assembly that recent attacks on commercial shipping and the targeting of seafarers are unacceptable and require international response. "India calls upon all parties to exercise restraint, deescalate tensions, ensure protection of civilians and uninterrupted flow of energy and commerce," he said.

Shankra said Indian seafarers have died in these incidents and noted India's participation with Liberia and 23 partners in an initiative to rally global public opinion against such targeting. He urged adherence to international law and said the safety and security of shipping and seafarers "must never be compromised," proposing diplomatic and cooperative measures to keep trade routes open.