India is discussing with Ukraine and Russia the safe passage of ships in the Black Sea

India is holding talks with Ukraine and Russia to ensure the safe passage of merchant ships in the Black Sea amid an escalation of attacks. New Delhi is also discussing with the parties the possibility of safely transporting grain and energy resources.

“We are trying to be helpful, starting with the issue of maritime safety in the Black Sea, addressing the pressing concerns of Russia and Ukraine regarding grain and energy exports, as well as the possibility of halting the attacks,” — said Randhir Jaiswal, a spokesperson for the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, on Wednesday.

New Delhi’s intensified efforts coincided with a series of attacks on merchant ships carrying Indian sailors. India has condemned these attacks.

The day before, the Togol-flagged vessel Alfa Watan was attacked; the fate of its crew remains unknown. One Indian sailor was injured after an attack on the MV Able, flying the Palau flag. Another 23 Indian sailors were rescued following an attack on an oil tanker flying the Liberian flag.

Indian Foreign Minister Subramanyam Jaishankar stated that New Delhi is playing a more active role in efforts to reduce tensions between Russia and Ukraine. According to him, in July, India reached out to both sides following the deaths of Indian sailors during attacks on commercial vessels.

Initially, the discussions focused on maritime safety. Later, they expanded to include the possibility of facilitating grain exports through the Black Sea and energy issues. At the same time, Jaishankar cautioned that there is no certainty yet that agreements will be reached.

It should be noted that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again called on the Russian dictator to begin negotiations to end the war against Ukraine. They held a meeting in New Delhi ahead of the BRICS summit.

India is one of the largest importers of Russian oil and grain. However, the country has already faced risks to shipping in the Black Sea due to Russian and Ukrainian attacks. Indian sailors have already fallen victim to drone strikes.

Source: Bloomberg.

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