Were only nation that lost mariners: India speaks at UK Hormuz meet
New Delhi also noted the importance of principles of freedom of maritime navigation.
India on Thursday noted that it was the only country to have lost citizens in the conflict-hit Strait of Hormuz as it attended a multilateral meeting convened by the UK for the reopening of the strategic waterway, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
New Delhi also noted the importance of principles of freedom of maritime navigation.
With Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri representing India, the conference was attended by over 60 nations. He doubled down India's stance about diplomacy being the most viable path for resolution of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
"He also underlined that the way out of the crisis consisted of de-escalation and a return to the path of diplomacy and dialogue among all concerned parties," the MEA said.
Misri further "emphasised the impact of the crisis on India’s energy security and the fact that India remains the only country to have lost mariners in attacks on merchant shipping in the Gulf," the ministry said in a statement.
So far, at least three Indian sailors working on foreign-flagged ships have been killed in attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, according to India’s Directorate General of Shipping.
India in talks with Iran and others
A UK-led meeting was held as countries increased coordination to keep this crucial energy route stable. India is also in touch with countries in the Middle East, including Iran, to ensure shipping routes remain open, the MEA said.
Iran has been selectively blocking ships in the Strait of Hormuz. India is among the few countries whose fuel-carrying ships are still being allowed to pass through during the ongoing conflict.
The MEA also rejected reports claiming that India has any kind of toll or payment arrangement with Iran for its ships to use the route.
US not part of the meeting
Interestingly, the US did not attend the meeting it had called. This comes after former US President Donald Trump indicated that ensuring the safety of the Strait—affected by the conflict following US-Israeli strikes on Iran—is not America’s responsibility.