During a meeting in Manila at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed deep concerns regarding the safety of Indian seafarers in the Black Sea region to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. This discussion followed India’s recent summoning of Russian Charge d’Affaires Vladimir Ladanov, triggered by the tragic deaths of four Indian crew members from the Guinea-Bissau-flagged vessel MV Golden Leo due to an attack near Ukraine’s coast.
Jaishankar and Lavrov engaged in a comprehensive review of bilateral relations, examining various areas including trade, investment, energy, and technology, as well as sharing perspectives on the ongoing Ukraine conflict and the situation in the Gulf. Jaishankar emphasized India’s serious apprehensions about the safety of its seafarers amidst the continuing conflict in the region.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs had previously issued a strong condemnation of the attack on the merchant vessel. Russian officials have asserted their intention to remain in dialogue with India, focusing on this incident. Maritime experts have advised caution to Indian seafarers considering employment on vessels in the Black Sea, noting the increased security risks.
This meeting precedes an anticipated visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin to India for the upcoming BRICS Summit on September 12-13. Both nations also reviewed advancements within their Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership, highlighting enhanced cooperation in several sectors including trade and technology.
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