Attacks on commercial shipping in Gulf, Red Sea simply indefensible: Jaishankar as India and Liberia announce ‘group of friends’
A terrorist country is asking me that question, the External Affairs Minister said in strong response to Pakistani journalist at the UN
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Context
At the 81st (UNGA), External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced a new 'group of friends' initiative between India and Liberia focused on the safety and security of shipping and seafarers. The initiative addresses escalating attacks on commercial vessels in critical maritime routes like the Gulf and Red Sea. Additionally, the event was marked by a sharp exchange regarding state-sponsored terrorism between India and a Pakistani journalist.
UPSC Perspectives
International Relations
The formation of the 'group of friends' highlights a significant diplomatic maneuver by India at the . By partnering with Liberia, the world's largest shipping registry, India (a major source of seafarers) is actively participating in global governance regarding maritime security. This move signals a proactive approach to protecting its citizens and interests abroad, shifting from a reactive stance to shaping international norms. The focus on regions like the , , and is crucial, as these are critical chokepoints for global trade. For UPSC, understanding how bilateral partnerships can be leveraged within multilateral forums like the to address transnational challenges like maritime security is vital.
Geographical
The repeated attacks mentioned by the External Affairs Minister occur in highly strategic maritime zones. The , connected to the Indian Ocean via the strait, and the , linking the Persian Gulf to the , are essential arteries for global energy and commercial shipping. Disruptions here directly impact the global supply chain, leading to increased transit times, insurance costs, and potential inflation. The geographical proximity of these areas to ongoing conflicts exacerbates the risks. From a UPSC perspective, mapping these locations, understanding their strategic significance as Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs), and analyzing the impact of blockades or insecurity in these specific regions on India's energy security and trade are critical areas of study.
Internal Security
The sharp exchange regarding terrorism underscores the persistent challenge of state-sponsored terrorism in South Asia, specifically concerning Pakistan. India's consistent diplomatic strategy has been to isolate Pakistan internationally on the issue of harboring terrorists. The term 'terrorist country' used by the EAM reflects a hardened diplomatic stance, moving beyond nuanced language to direct confrontation on global platforms. For UPSC, this relates directly to GS Paper 3 (Security). Candidates must understand the implications of cross-border terrorism, the role of state actors in supporting non-state militant groups, and India's diplomatic efforts to counter this narrative globally, including through organizations like the (FATF) and the .