United Nations/New Delhi, August 9 (UNI): The presidential statement on Maritime Security was unanimously adopted by the UN Security Council, under the presidency of India, after an Open Debate on the subject chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday.
“Thank all Council members for supporting the first signature event of Indian Presidency,” tweeted External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar after the event.
The debate, on the topic ‘Enhancing Maritime Security — A Case for International Cooperation’, saw the two presidents, one prime minister and 10 ministers join Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“A productive UNSC open debate on Maritime Security. UNSC chaired by an Indian PM for the first time. Two Presidents, one PM, and ten Ministers joined PM @narendramodi on this important occasion,” tweeted the minister.
He said 10 non-council members sent their written position underlining that the debate was timely and relevant. “PM articulated five key maritime principles- on trade, disputes, natural disasters, environment and connectivity.”
The UNSC noted with concern the ongoing threats to maritime safety and security posed by piracy, armed robbery at sea, terrorists’ travel and use of the sea to conduct crimes and acts against shipping, offshore installations, critical infrastructure, and other maritime interests.
The Security Council noted the deplorable loss of life and adverse impact on international trade, energy security and the global economy resulting from illegal activities and emphasized the importance of safeguarding the legitimate uses of the oceans and the lives of people at sea, as well as the livelihoods and security of coastal communities.
It welcomed the creation of platforms like the Indian Ocean Forum on Maritime Crime of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), to facilitate legal cooperation, investigation and prosecution of criminal networks and welcomed continued work by UNODC, upon request of Member States.
