What happened?
On May 21, 2025, India addressed the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), highlighting maritime security and counterterrorism as pivotal to its national security and economic interests. Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, articulated India’s comprehensive strategy that balances robust defense capabilities, regional diplomacy, international cooperation, and domestic infrastructure development. This approach aims to address both traditional threats from state actors and non-traditional challenges such as piracy, smuggling, illegal fishing, and maritime terrorism.
Why it matters to India
India’s emphasis on maritime security stems from its extensive coastline and reliance on sea routes for trade and energy supplies. By advocating for a free, open, and rules-based maritime order in line with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), India seeks to safeguard its economic growth and regional stability. This stance also reflects India’s proactive role in addressing emerging threats in the Indo-Pacific region and underscores its commitment to international cooperation in maintaining global maritime security.