What happened?
On May 20, 2025, India told the UN Security Council that it views maritime security and countering terrorism as central to its national security and economic interests. India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Parvathaneni Harish, stated that India is actively pursuing its role as a responsible maritime power to safeguard its interests and address emerging threats in the Indo-Pacific region. This address occurred during the UNSC high-level open debate on “Strengthening Maritime Security through International Cooperation for Global Stability”. Harish emphasized that India’s maritime security strategy is broad, addressing both traditional threats from state actors and non-traditional threats like piracy, smuggling, and maritime terrorism. He also highlighted the Indian Navy’s recent actions in the Western Arabian Sea, where it deployed over 35 ships, responded to over 30 incidents, and saved more than 520 lives.
Why it matters to India
India’s strong assertion at the UN Security Council highlights its critical focus on maritime security and counter-terrorism as cornerstones of its economic growth and national security. Given its extensive coastline and reliance on critical trade routes, safeguarding maritime interests is paramount for India’s economic prosperity. By actively promoting a free, open, and rules-based maritime order in accordance with UNCLOS, India reinforces its commitment to international law and stability in the Indo-Pacific. The significant actions taken by the Indian Navy in the Western Arabian Sea, including saving lives and escorting merchant vessels, demonstrate India’s robust defence capabilities and its role as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region. This engagement at the UN allows India to shape global discourse on maritime threats and garner international cooperation, aligning with Prime Minister Modi’s five basic principles for a holistic approach to maritime security, which include peaceful dispute settlement and joint efforts against non-state actors.