GS-2: Important International Organisation & their mandate
GS-3: Security & Challenges
UN Debate: Maritime Security
In News: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday chaired a high-level United Nations Security Council open debate on enhancing maritime security and the need for international cooperation in this field.
This is the first time that maritime security is being discussed in a holistic manner as an exclusive agenda item in such a high-level open debate and this step is certainly historic showing the level of commitment of the government towards maritime security.
Maritime Security
Maritime security is one of the latest buzzwords of international relations having multiple dimensions.
Core dimensions of maritime security involves the concept of blue economy, food security and the resilience of coastal populations.
India and Maritime Security
The way India has positioned itself on the maritime map because of constant endeavor over the past few years. Be it 2015 Sagar policy Mr. Modi spoke about which later became sort of conceptual framework for Indian navy. All reflected the attention Indian government paid to maritime challenges.
For India, maritime security is an important aspect of national security as it has a coastline of over 7,000 km.
India’s exports and imports have remained mostly across the shipping lanes of the Indian Ocean.
Therefore, securing Sea Lanes of Communication (SLOCs) have been an important issue for India in the 21st century.
India’s 5-Point Agenda for Enhancing Maritime Cooperation
We must remove barriers in maritime trade as they are challenges for the entire world.
Maritime disputes should be resolved peacefully and on the basis of international law only.
We should face natural calamities and maritime threats created by non-state actors together.
We have to preserve the maritime environment and maritime resources.
We should encourage responsible maritime connectivity.
Outcome of the UNSC Meet
What lies in the heart of India’s maritime insecurity is China claiming sovereignty over all of the South China Sea islands and their adjacent waters.
PM pointedly referred to “dangerous encounters between vessels at sea and provocative actions to advance unlawful maritime claims” in the South China Sea (SCS).
India’s maritime security initiative is a wake-up call for everyone to recognize and address the real and imminent threat to our common maritime heritage.
India’s concept of SAGAR and its vison of Indo-Pacific is receiving greater acceptability. Nations accept that the objective should be development for all.
The convergence of Russia and India is of great importance. While Russia is aware of the tension growing in the SCS, it is also concerned that none should disturb the strategic balance in the Arctic.
China has to make a choice whether it wishes to act as a responsible and mature nation and accept the international laws or would continue to flout them.
Can You answer this question now?
Discuss the 5-point agenda for enhancing maritime cooperation.
