On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presided over a high-level UN Security Council open debate on improving maritime security and the need for international cooperation in this area. The prime minister presided over a video conference open debate on “Enhancing Marine Security – A Case for International Cooperation,” the first time maritime security has been debated holistically as an exclusive agenda item in such a high-level open debate.
Several heads of state and government from UN Security Council (UNSC) member nations, as well as high-level briefers from the UN system and key regional organisations, are attending the meeting. The open discussion centred on how to successfully combat maritime crime and instability, as well as how to improve marine domain coordination.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, PM Modi is the first Indian prime minister to preside over a UN Security Council Open Debate. Here are some of the most memorable lines from his speech:
“Oceans are our shared heritage and our maritime routes are the lifelines of international trade. These oceans are very important for the future of our planet,” he said.
“Sea routes are being misused for piracy and terrorism. There are maritime disputes between many countries. And climate change and natural disasters are also subjects related to maritime domain,” Prime Minister Modi various issues of concern.
“We should eliminate trade restrictions in the maritime sector. Our prosperity is dependent on the free flow of marine trade, and obstacles in this path might constitute a threat to the world economy as a whole. “Free maritime trade has always been synonymous with Indian culture,” Prime Minister Modi stated.
Prime Minister Modi stated that “For maritime security, I would like to put forth 5 basic principles”.
“First and foremost, we must remove impediments to genuine marine trade. The dynamic flow of marine trade is critical to our collective prosperity. Bottlenecks in this area can pose a threat to the world economy as a whole “PM Modi stated.
“Second, maritime disputes should be settled amicably and solely in accordance with international law. This is critical for mutual confidence and trust. The only way to preserve world peace and stability is to do so.”
“Third, we should work together to address natural disasters and marine dangers posed by non-state actors. In this regard, India has made a number of efforts to improve regional cooperation. PM Modi stated, “We have been the first response in maritime disasters such as cyclones, tsunamis, and pollution.”
“The fourth premise is that we must protect the maritime environment and resources. The oceans, as we all know, have a direct impact on the climate. As a result, we must ensure that our maritime environment is free of pollutants such as plastics and oil spills,” the prime minister said.
He added, “The fifth premise is to promote responsible marine connection.”
PM Modi stated “It is obvious that infrastructural development is required to increase maritime trade. However, the economic sustainability and absorption capability of the country must be considered when developing such infrastructure projects. Based on SAGAR’s goal, we aspire to create an inclusive framework for maritime security in our region (Security and Growth for All in the Region).” This vision is for a safe, secure, and stable marine sector.
