EAM Jaishankar Voices Concerns Over Safety of Indian Seafarers With Russian FM

External

Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Wednesday raised India's concerns over the safety of Indian seafarers during his meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Manila.Sharing details of the meeting on X, Jaishankar said, "Reiterated our strong concern regarding the safety of Indian seafarers in the region."

Jaishankar's remarks come a day after the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned Russian Charge d'Affaires Vladimir Ladanov over the attack on the commercial vessel MV Golden Leo, in which four Indian nationals were killed. In a statement, the MEA said it conveyed India's "grave concerns and unequivocal condemnation" of the attack. The ministry said attacks on commercial ships threaten the safety, security and stability of international maritime trade and that the loss of innocent civilian lives is unacceptable."Discussed various aspects of our partnership, including trade & investment, energy & connectivity, science & technology, and mobility. Also exchanged views on the Ukraine conflict and the Gulf situation," Jaishankar added.The Russian Foreign Ministry also confirmed the meeting between the two leaders in a post on X, stating, "Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and External Affairs Minister of India Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar hold talks in Manila."The MEA also asked the Russian diplomat to convey India's concerns to Moscow. The attack took place on July 19 as MV Golden Leo was leaving the Ukrainian port of Odesa. Four Indian crew members were killed, while another Indian national was critically injured.According to the MEA, there were 17 crew members on board the vessel, including five Indians. Ukraine has accused Russia of carrying out the missile strike on the grain cargo vessel. Russia has not publicly accepted responsibility for the attack. India has reiterated that the safety of civilian shipping and freedom of navigation must be protected in accordance with international norms.