New Delhi: India and Liberia have launched a new international group focused on improving the safety and security of commercial shipping and seafarers amid repeated attacks on vessels in several strategically important maritime regions.
The initiative, known as the “Group of Friends on Safety and Security of Shipping and Seafarers”, was launched during a ministerial level meeting held on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly.
The partnership brings together India, one of the world’s major sources of seafarers, and Liberia, which operates the world’s largest ship registry. The two countries aim to draw greater international attention to the risks faced by merchant ships and their crews.
Commercial shipping has faced repeated security incidents in recent months, particularly around the Gulf, Red Sea and surrounding waters. Attacks on vessels have disrupted maritime trade and increased concerns over the safety of crews operating along major international shipping routes.
Seafarers are currently facing heightened risks in several areas, including the Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Bab-el-Mandeb, Black Sea and waters around Somalia.
The growing security concerns are particularly significant for India, which has a large community of seafarers working on both Indian flagged and foreign flagged vessels. Many Indian crew members operate ships that travel through or near regions affected by ongoing conflicts and maritime attacks.
The new group is expected to provide a platform for countries to discuss maritime security challenges, strengthen cooperation and promote measures aimed at protecting seafarers and maintaining the safety of commercial shipping.
With global trade heavily dependent on secure maritime routes, the initiative comes as countries seek greater international cooperation to protect vessels
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