PM Modi Raises Maritime & Seafarer Safety at G7 Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised critical maritime security and seafarer welfare issues at the G7 outreach session, highlighting that 'several Indians have lost their lives' due to conflicts in West Asia. This included discussions on ship attacks in key waterways and protection of international maritime commerce.

BACKGROUND: Recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz region have directly endangered Indian seafarers aboard merchant ships. These attacks relate to geopolitical tensions between Iran, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and US-led coalition forces. India has significant maritime interests given that 90% of its trade moves by sea and large Indian diaspora works in maritime sectors.

KEY FACTS: Modi held bilateral talks with UK PM Keir Starmer (discussing CETA implementation) and had first face-to-face with Trump in 16 months. Modi-UAE President jointly called for free navigation in Strait of Hormuz (critical chokepoint through which 21% of global oil passes). Multiple meetings with G7 leaders (Meloni, Macron evident from photo opportunities).

WHY IT MATTERS: Demonstrates India's pivot toward maritime security diplomacy. Indian seafarers' safety is human rights concern and economic necessity. Strait of Hormuz access is vital for India's energy security (70% of crude oil imports via this route).

EXAM ANGLE: UPSC Mains (Foreign Policy, Maritime Security, India's Global Role), State PSCs (International Relations). Expected questions on: India's maritime strategy, Blue Economy, freedom of navigation doctrine, India's role in West Asian geopolitics, G7-India engagement, seafarer welfare under international maritime law (IMO conventions).