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Blinken and Jaishankar Address Red Sea Navigation and Security at Munich Conference
In a significant meeting on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar discussed strategies to ensure freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and enhance economic stability in the region. The dialogue underscored the crucial roles both nations play in maintaining security and fostering economic growth amidst regional volatility.
The leaders’ conversation, as detailed by State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller, also touched upon efforts to achieve lasting peace in the Middle East. This meeting comes amid recent tensions in the Red Sea, where Yemen’s Houthi rebels have launched attacks on shipping to press for a ceasefire in the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
The bilateral talks were also a follow-up to recent defense collaborations, including the US’s agreement to supply India with 31 MQ-9B Predator drones, and discussions on a high-level probe into allegations related to a plot against Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on US soil.
Both Blinken and Jaishankar highlighted the strength of the US-India partnership, emphasizing its role in addressing global challenges, promoting democracy, and tackling climate change. The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to collaborate closely on various issues, aiming to positively impact both their populations and uphold a rules-based international order.
