India Stands For Open & Rule-Based Maritime Borders In Indo-Pacific: Rajnath Singh

New Delhi: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh underlined India’s commitment to implement international regulations and enact legislations for maritime safety and security.

He said India believes to establish cooperative mechanisms with nations and engage in capacity building of maritime law enforcement agencies.

The Defence minister reiterated India always stands for open, free, rule-based maritime borders in Indo-Pacific. Speaking at the 18th Heads of Asian Coast Guard Agencies meeting at New Delhi, Singh highlighted that with more maritime activities, maritime safety and security demand more cooperation among nations.

Singh said India is encouraged by the effectiveness of agreements like the Regional Cooperation Agreement for Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships in Asia. He said mutual cooperation is the most effective way for ensuring safety and security at sea.

He said Coast guard agencies working in tandem with respective Navies have an important role to play in the safety and security of maritime activities.

Highlighting India always believes that all countries should come together for the betterment of mankind, Singh underlined that India has also shifted its focus on the Blue economy to improve livelihoods while preserving the ocean ecosystems.