Prime Minister Narendra Modi said to U.S. President Donald Trump that the safety of Indian seafarers is a priority during the G7 summit [1].
The discussion highlights the growing security risks for maritime workers in volatile regions and the strategic necessity of maintaining open shipping lanes for global trade.
The meeting took place Wednesday in Evian‑les‑Bains, France [1]. Modi raised the issue following the killing of three Indian seafarers off the coast of Oman [1].
Modi said the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open is necessary to ensure the safety of maritime personnel and the stability of international shipping [1]. The Strait of Hormuz serves as a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies and trade routes connecting the Middle East to the rest of the world.
The killing of the three workers [1] has increased concerns within the Indian government regarding the protection of its citizens working at sea. India maintains a significant presence of maritime laborers across international waters, making the security of these routes a primary diplomatic concern.
During the talks, Modi said that the safety of these workers is of utmost importance to India [2]. The conversation occurred amid the broader agenda of the G7 summit, where leaders are addressing global security and economic stability.
President Trump and Prime Minister Modi discussed the strategic implications of maritime security in the region [1]. The cooperation between the U.S. and India on these issues reflects a shared interest in preventing the escalation of conflict in critical waterways.
“the safety of Indian seafarers is a priority”
The focus on the Strait of Hormuz underscores India's vulnerability to disruptions in the Persian Gulf, where a large portion of its energy imports and maritime labor force are concentrated. By aligning with the U.S. on this issue, India is seeking a security guarantee for its citizens and trade interests in a region frequently destabilized by geopolitical tensions.
