NEW DELHI, March 9: India advocates de-escalation and return to dialogue and diplomacy, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Monday on the widening West Asia conflict, while stressing on respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states in the region.
Making a suo moto statement on the crisis that broke out on February 28 when the US and Israel launched military strikes on Iran and Tehran retaliated with attacks of US positions in the region as well as Israel, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said safety of Indian nationals as well as national interests such as energy security and trade remain top most priority for the government.
“India is in favour of peace and urges a return to dialogue and diplomacy. We advocate de-escalation, restraint, and ensuring the safety of civilians,” he said. “The wellbeing and security of the Indian community in the region is our priority. And our national interests, including energy security and trade, will always remain paramount.” India, Jaishankar said, expressed deep concern at the outset and urged all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation and prioritise civilian safety, stressing that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path to resolve the crisis while respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states in the region.
Jaishankar said the Cabinet Committee on Security met on March 1 under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and reviewed the situation, including implications for regional security, economic activity and the safety of the large Indian community in the Gulf.He noted that nearly one crore Indians live and work in Gulf countries, while few thousand are in Iran for study or employment, making regional stability critical for India. The Gulf is also central to India’s energy security and trade, accounting for nearly USD 200 billion in commerce, he said.
The minister said attacks on merchant shipping have affected Indian seafarers, with casualties reported and one Indian mariner still missing.
According to the minister, nearly 67,000 Indian nationals have returned from the region so far as the government facilitated additional commercial flights and other travel arrangements amid partial airspace openings.The Ministry of External Affairs has also set up a dedicated control room to monitor the situation and respond to requests. (PTI)
