Jaishankar says attacks on civilian shipping cannot be tolerated, calls for maritime security amid Middle East crisis

External affairs minister S Jaishankar said attacks on seafarers, civilian shipping, and critical infrastructure cannot be countenanced under any circumstances at the 21st East Asia Summit in Manila.

Jaishankar called for strict adherence to international maritime law and regional cooperation to ensure safe navigation through international sea lanes amid the Middle East crisis.

India supports a substantive, effective, and legally binding Code of Conduct for the South China Sea consistent with UNCLOS 1982, without prejudicing rights of non-participating countries.

Jaishankar noted global conflicts impact the world economy, especially affecting the Global South, with energy, food, and health security at risk.

He urged coordinated action against transnational cyber scam networks that have trapped Indian citizens, and reaffirmed India's backing for ASEAN-led efforts in Myanmar.