The Indian government has expressed its concern over the safe movement of ships in the Strait of Hormuz and participated in a major meeting led by Britain. The Ministry of External Affairs has made it clear that the security of international sea lanes is of paramount importance for India. This step has been taken at a time when this route has become difficult due to tension in the Gulf region. India is in constant touch with Iran and other countries so that there is no threat to the ships carrying oil and gas.
India’s stand in the meeting and major updates related to security
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri represented India in this virtual meeting and stressed on the security of sea lanes. India says that the movement of merchant ships should be without any hindrance as per international laws. India mainly uses this route to import cooking gas (LPG) and natural gas (LNG).
Six Indian ships have recently passed this route safely after negotiations. More than 40 countries of the world participated in the meeting, which included Canada, Japan and UAE. The US was not involved in this special meeting, which was led by Britain. India is the only country to have lost its sailors in attacks on ships in the Gulf.
What effect will this have on the common man and migrants?
This news is very important for Indians living in Gulf countries and the energy needs of India. Strait of Hormuz is a route from where a major part of India’s energy needs come. If the movement of ships stops here, then there can be a big impact on the prices of gas and oil in India. The government has clarified that they are in touch with Iran and other regional countries to ensure safe passage for their ships.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India supports open sea trade under international rules. Iran has kept India in the list of ‘friendly countries’ which are allowed to go through this route. This will go a long way in securing the trade between the Gulf countries and India and the situation will also remain normal for the Indians living there.
