New Delhi: The US has expressed its appreciation for India’s “increased cooperation” in defending the liberty of navigation within the Red Sea, the place the 2 international locations share a standard concern over the Houthi assaults that endanger the area. On Thursday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had a telephone dialog and “discussed the United States and India’s shared concerns over the reckless Houthi attacks in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, which threaten the free flow of commerce, endanger innocent mariners, and violate international law”, in line with a press release by State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller.
Blinken highlighted the significance of the Red Sea as a significant industrial route that helps worldwide commerce and “welcomed increased cooperation with India in defending freedom of navigation in the region”, the assertion stated.
Jaishankar and Blinken additionally talked concerning the Israel-Hamas battle, efforts to forestall the escalation and enhance the supply of humanitarian support to civilians in Gaza. Blinken additionally mentioned Russia’s conflict of aggression in opposition to Ukraine, the assertion stated.
In a put up on X, Jaishankar stated he had a “good discussion” with “my friend” Blinken.
“Our conversation focused on maritime security challenges, especially the Red Sea region. Appreciated his insights on ongoing situation in West Asia, including Gaza,” Jaishankar stated.
The Indian chief added that they exchanged views on developments pertaining to the Ukraine battle. “Looking forward to realizing our extensive cooperation agenda for 2024,” Jaishankar stated.
In a put up on X, Miller stated Blinken had a “productive call” with Jaishankar, “discussing U.S.-India partnership for protecting freedom of navigation in critical waterways”.
