EAM Jaishankar Calls for Global Action to Protect Seafarers

External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar co-chaired the inaugural meeting of the Group of Friends on Safety & Security of Shipping & Seafarers (GoFonS4) alongside Liberia’s Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81).

My remarks at the inaugural meeting of Group of Friends on Safety & Security of Shipping & Seafarers #GoFonS4 #UNGA81 https://t.co/zOoYjpL0bx

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 25, 2026

Jaishankar highlighted the growing security risks faced by commercial shipping and seafarers, noting that vessels and mariners have come under repeated attacks in the Gulf, Red Sea, Black Sea and other regions in recent months.

Attacks Disrupt Maritime Trade and Endanger Lives

The External Affairs Minister said attacks on commercial shipping are disrupting global maritime commerce and have resulted in the loss of innocent lives, including Indian nationals.

He also highlighted the wider humanitarian impact on seafarers. Prolonged disruptions have resulted in extended confinement on board vessels, delays in crew changes and repatriation, separation from families and psychological distress among mariners.
Jaishankar stressed the need for stronger international cooperation to deter attacks and improve safety and security for shipping and seafarers.

India Proposes Seafarers Emergency Support Network

Jaishankar also highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s proposal at the recent BRICS Summit to establish a Seafarers Emergency Support Network.
The proposed network could connect maritime authorities and embassies of concerned countries to facilitate distress alerts, medical assistance, communication with families and evacuation support during emergencies.

GoFonS4 to Build Inclusive Maritime Cooperation

Jaishankar described the inaugural meeting as a positive beginning towards developing GoFonS4 as an inclusive platform. The initiative seeks to bring together major ship-owning countries, nations with large ship registries and countries that provide significant numbers of seafarers.

The meeting underlined the importance of coordinated international efforts to strengthen maritime security while protecting the lives, welfare and rights of seafarers working across critical global shipping routes.