Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday called for stronger protection of global maritime routes and the safety of seafarers while addressing leaders at the G7 Summit in Evian, France. His remarks came just days after three Indian sailors lost their lives in an attack on a merchant vessel near Oman.
Speaking during the outreach session on “Forging New Partnerships and Rebuilding International Solidarity,” Modi stressed that dialogue, diplomacy, and international cooperation remain the only sustainable solutions to global conflicts. Notably, US President Donald Trump was seated alongside the Indian Prime Minister during the session.
Modi Highlights Safety of Indian Seafarers
Referring to the growing risks faced by maritime workers, Modi said the international community has a shared responsibility to ensure safe sea lanes and secure working conditions for seafarers.
“The safety of seafarers, who connect countries through global maritime trade, is our collective responsibility. Maritime routes must remain safe, and those working at sea should be able to perform their duties without fear,” Modi said.
His comments followed recent attacks on merchant vessels operating near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical shipping corridors.
West Asia Conflict Impacts Global Economy
The Prime Minister welcomed recent diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions in West Asia. He noted that ongoing conflicts have resulted in the loss of lives, including Indian nationals, and have disrupted global trade and economic stability.
Modi emphasized that instability in the region affects not only neighboring countries but also global energy supplies, maritime commerce, and economic growth.
According to official figures, 13 Indian citizens have died since hostilities escalated in the region earlier this year.
Trust Is the Foundation of Global Partnerships
During his address, Modi underscored the importance of trust in international relations. He argued that modern global challenges such as food security, energy security, healthcare, cybersecurity, and economic development require countries to work together.
“The world’s most valuable strategic asset today is not technology, markets, or natural resources. It is mutual trust,” he said.
The Prime Minister also cautioned against the misuse of technology and supply chains as geopolitical tools, advocating for a rules-based international order that promotes cooperation rather than confrontation.
Modi-Trump Meeting in Focus
The remarks came ahead of a scheduled bilateral meeting between Modi and Trump on the sidelines of the G7 Summit. The meeting is being closely watched amid recent challenges in India-US relations, including trade disputes and concerns over maritime security in West Asia.
The two leaders briefly interacted before the summit session, marking their first face-to-face meeting since their discussions in Washington in February 2025.
Growing Importance of Maritime Security
India has consistently advocated for freedom of navigation and secure international trade routes. With a significant portion of global energy supplies moving through the Strait of Hormuz, any disruption in the region has far-reaching consequences for countries around the world.
Modi reiterated India’s readiness to work with international partners to strengthen maritime security, safeguard global commerce, and ensure the welfare of seafarers operating in conflict-prone regions.
As geopolitical tensions continue to challenge global stability, India’s message at the G7 Summit highlighted the need for cooperation, trust, and diplomacy to address emerging international crises.
