Akbar: Do not turn the oceans into conflict

United Nations, June 9: Announcing the disappearance of all nations for the freedom of overflights and navigations over high seas, Minister of State for External Affairs M.J. Akbar has said that seas should not be turned into areas of conflict. "Safe and open seas are crucial for peace, stability, prosperity and development," he said on Thursday at the UN Oceans Conference. "India reiterates the importance of freedom of navigation and overflight on the high seas, unimpeded lawful commerce."

"We cannot allow our seas to turn into zones of contention," he added, emphasising that all maritime disputes should be resolved peacefully in accordance with international law and the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Even though he did not name any country, the remarks appeared to be directed at China, which uses strong-arm tactics against Vietnam, the Philippines and other in their disputes in the South China Sea, a crucial maritime corridor for India.

Turning to the Indian Ocean, Akbar said it could become "the ocean of the 21st century, a free and secure pathway for trade and exchange of intellect, discourse, cuisine and culture that helps fashion a truly international harmony". "We believe that the Indian Ocean is the most powerful force in the world of geography and economics in world history," he added. India is working with its overseas counterparts to enhance cooperation on blue economy and maritime security. Speaking about the first Maritime India Summit to share with South Korea, which participated in more than 40 countries in 2016, he said.