India and Liberia condemn attacks on commercial ships in Black Sea

India and Liberia, acting as co-chairs of the Group of Friends on Safety and Security of Shipping and Seafarers (GoF on S4), have issued a joint statement condemning recent attacks on commercial vessels and seafarers in the Black Sea and the Gulf. The two nations described the incidents as “indefensible” and “unacceptable,” noting that they disrupt maritime trade and result in the loss of innocent lives.

The condemnation follows attacks on several merchant vessels, including the Togo-flagged Alfa Watan, the Palau-flagged Able, and the Liberia-flagged Aframax Rio. In the case of the vessel Able, reports indicate that seven of the eighteen crew members are Indian nationals, with one sustaining injuries.

Both countries called for an immediate cessation of these attacks to maintain regional peace and stability. They expressed condolences to the families of deceased seafarers and reaffirmed their commitment to international coordination to safeguard maritime routes and protect the rights of sailors globally.