Archive · 23 Jul 2026
Jaishankar condemns attacks on merchant ships at ASEAN forum
At the ASEAN Regional Forum in Manila, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke about the importance of keeping international waters safe for trade.
He condemned attacks on ships and civilian infrastructure, emphasizing that commerce should flow freely.
Jaishankar also highlighted India's efforts in disaster relief and maritime security, including initiatives like the Information Fusion Centre and the Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness initiative.
He stressed the need for a legally binding Code of Conduct in the South China Sea that respects the rights of all users.
The South China Sea is a busy trade route claimed by several countries, leading to tensions and confrontations.
Jaishankar also called for zero tolerance against terrorism and advocated for responsible use of AI and cooperation on cybercrimes.
EAM Jaishankar condemned attacks on merchant ships and civilian infrastructure at the ASEAN Regional Forum in Manila.
India advocates for a secure maritime environment and supports a legally binding Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.
Jaishankar highlighted India's initiatives in disaster relief and maritime security, including the Information Fusion Centre and the Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness initiative.
He called for zero tolerance against terrorism and emphasized the need to choke financing resources that fuel it.
Jaishankar also advocated for a responsible and human-centric approach to AI and deeper cooperation on cybercrimes.
- Who
- External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar
- What
- Condemnation of attacks on merchant ships and advocacy for maritime security
- When
- Thursday, at the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting
- Where
- Manila, Philippines
- Why
- To ensure safe and unimpeded commerce through international waterways and address political and security issues in the Indo-Pacific
India's Stance on Maritime Security
China's Actions in South China Sea
Maritime Security
India's Stance on Maritime Security
India advocates for a secure maritime environment and condemns attacks on merchant ships and civilian infrastructure.
China's Actions in South China Sea
China's actions in the South China Sea, including confrontations with the Philippines, are seen as disruptive to maritime security.
South China Sea Dispute
India's Stance on Maritime Security
India supports a legally binding Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea that complies with UNCLOS 1982 and respects the rights of all users.
China's Actions in South China Sea
China claims sovereignty over the entire South China Sea and has been involved in confrontations with other claimants, including the Philippines.
- Event
- 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting
- Location
- Manila, Philippines
- Key Speaker
- External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar
- Main Topics
- Maritime security, South China Sea, terrorism, disaster relief, AI, cybercrimes
- India's Initiatives
- Information Fusion Centre, Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness initiative, deployment of Indian forces
- South China Sea Claims
- China, Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, Taiwan
- India's Position on COC
- Supports a legally binding Code of Conduct compliant with UNCLOS 1982
Sources
Attack on merchant ships unacceptable, international waters must be safe: EAM Jaishankar at ASEAN forum
ASEAN forum: Jaishankar says attack on merchant ships unacceptable, international waters must be safe
Acts of terror will have consequences: Jaishankar at ASEAN Regional Forum
