Modi calls for secure, open maritime order amid geopolitical disruption | Today’s news
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for a “free, open, secure, rules-based maritime order” built on cooperation and mutual trust as India seeks to expand its maritime economy, shipbuilding and green shipping capabilities.
In a written message to the third edition of Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue, organized jointly by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and the Observer Research Foundation in New Delhi, Modi said that developments in one part of the world’s oceans can have ramifications far beyond their shores, making global dialogue and cooperation increasingly important.
“Our vision is a free, open, secure and rules-based maritime order that brings greater peace, prosperity and progress for all,” Modi said on Wednesday, adding that he was confident the dialogue would strengthen the broader vision.
The report comes amid growing geopolitical and economic disruptions to global shipping, including risks to trade routes and supply chains following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz amid the US-Iran war.
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India is increasingly emphasizing the need for safe sea lanes, resilient supply chains and greater international maritime cooperation.
He linked India’s maritime ambitions to its broader goal of becoming a developed economy by 2047. He said the country was looking at the oceans with a “renewed sense of purpose” while working to protect marine ecosystems.
“India’s maritime vision extends across regions and oceans and is built on cooperation, trust, mutual respect and mutual benefit,” Modi said. “We believe that the oceans must become a source of shared prosperity, where every country has a voice and an opportunity to grow.”
Looking for a bigger role
The remarks come as India seeks a greater role in global maritime trade and supply chains, including through investments in ports, shipbuilding, shipping and maritime infrastructure.
Modi said India’s major ports have almost doubled their capacity, while turnaround times have been reduced significantly. The government is also gearing up for what it described as “a new era of shipbuilding and green shipping”, along with investment in ocean science and exploration.
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He also highlighted the government’s efforts to modernize the regulatory framework governing the maritime sector through new generation maritime laws aimed at creating a contemporary framework for the industry.
The government is also investing in ocean science and exploration to better understand the country’s seas and use them responsibly. “India has also introduced next-generation maritime laws to create a modern framework for the industry. At the same time, we are investing in ocean science and exploration to better understand our seas and responsibly harness their vast potential,” Modi said.
Supported by labor
India’s maritime push is also supported by its large seafaring workforce. Modi said Indian sailors now represent the second largest maritime workforce in the world, with young Indians gaining recognition in the world’s oceans. He said India is protecting ocean health and coastal ecosystems as it builds a stronger maritime economy.
The prime minister referred to India’s long maritime history, referring to the ancient port city of Lothal, the Chola dynasty and the maritime traditions of Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Indian sailors and traders, he said, historically carried goods, ideas, stories and culture to distant lands.
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Modi said India’s relationship with the ocean is also one of responsibility, with the country trying to balance economic expansion with the protection of coastal and marine ecosystems.
He expressed hope that Sagarmanthan will bring new ideas, deepen international partnerships and create new opportunities, while reinforcing the principle that the oceans should remain a source of shared prosperity.
