Jaishankar Calls for Global Action to Protect Seafarers

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has called for stronger international action to protect commercial shipping and seafarers, warning that attacks across key maritime routes have become a serious global concern.

Addressing the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, Jaishankar said that new challenges in the maritime domain had added to longstanding security concerns on land. He highlighted attacks on commercial vessels and seafarers in the Gulf, Red Sea and Black Sea, noting that Indian seafarers, along with crew members from other countries, have lost their lives.

“This is completely unacceptable,” Jaishankar said, stressing that the safety and security of shipping and seafarers must not be compromised.

India has joined Liberia and other partner countries in the Group of Friends on Safety and Security of Shipping and Seafarers, an initiative aimed at drawing greater international attention to threats facing commercial shipping and maritime workers.

The United Nations transcript of the initiative's launch said the group brought together 25 countries at its first meeting, with India and Liberia serving as co-chairs.

The initiative focuses on strengthening cooperation among countries and other stakeholders, including through existing international frameworks and organisations such as the International Maritime Organization and the International Labour Organization. Jaishankar said the objective is to build a stronger collective voice on the safety, security and welfare of seafarers.
India has repeatedly raised concerns over attacks on commercial shipping. At a UN Security Council meeting in April 2026, India called for freedom of navigation and global commerce to be respected in accordance with international law and highlighted the impact of maritime insecurity on seafarers and global supply chains.

The UN has also highlighted the wider consequences of attacks and disruptions affecting maritime routes. In August 2026, the UN Secretary-General called for the protection of civilian shipping and seafarers, respect for navigational rights and freedoms, and an end to attacks against commercial shipping in the Red Sea and Black Sea.

Jaishankar further emphasised that scrupulous observance of international law is an integral part of ensuring the safety and security of shipping and seafarers. The initiative comes amid growing international concern over the vulnerability of vital maritime corridors and their importance to global trade, energy supplies and food security.