Évian-les-Bains, France, June 17, 2026:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi used his address at the G7 Summit to highlight growing concerns over maritime security and the safety of seafarers following recent tensions in West Asia that disrupted global shipping routes.
Speaking during a session on international partnerships and global solidarity, Modi emphasized that protecting seafarers and securing vital maritime corridors must remain a shared global responsibility.
Modi Highlights Risks to Global Maritime Trade
The Prime Minister noted that conflicts and instability in West Asia have affected international trade routes and created risks for commercial shipping.
He pointed to disruptions in maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy transit corridors through which nearly one-fifth of global oil supplies pass.
According to Modi, disruptions in such critical routes have consequences not only for regional economies but also for global energy security and trade.
Concern Over Loss of Indian Lives
During his remarks, Modi referred to the loss of Indian civilians working at sea amid recent regional tensions.
The comments came in the backdrop of reports involving the tanker MT Settebello, where three Indian crew members reportedly lost their lives during a recent incident linked to escalating hostilities in the region.
Without directly naming any country, the Prime Minister highlighted the human cost of geopolitical conflicts and their impact on civilian maritime workers.
Seafarers Connect the World
Modi stressed that seafarers play a vital role in connecting nations through trade, commerce, and supply chains.
He stated that the international community has a collective responsibility to ensure that sailors can perform their duties safely and without fear, even during periods of geopolitical uncertainty.
The Prime Minister called for stronger cooperation to safeguard shipping routes and protect maritime personnel operating in sensitive regions.
India’s Maritime Interests
India has a significant stake in maritime security due to its extensive dependence on global shipping networks for trade and energy imports.
Millions of Indians are directly or indirectly linked to maritime industries, while Indian seafarers form an important part of the global shipping workforce.
Ensuring safe navigation through strategic waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz remains a key priority for India’s economic and security interests.
Call for Dialogue and Stability
Reiterating India’s long-standing position, Modi emphasized that lasting solutions to international conflicts can only be achieved through dialogue, diplomacy, and cooperation.
He urged nations to work together to maintain peace, ensure maritime security, and protect civilians whose livelihoods depend on global trade routes.
