EAM Jaishankar, Antony Blinken talk about Purple Sea assaults, Gaza, Ukraine

The USA has welcomed the “elevated cooperation” with India in defending freedom of navigation within the Purple Sea as the 2 international locations mentioned “shared issues” over the reckless Houthi assaults within the area.

Exterior Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke Thursday and “mentioned the USA and India’s shared issues over the reckless Houthi assaults within the southern Purple Sea and Gulf of Aden, which threaten the free circulate of commerce, endanger harmless mariners, and violate worldwide regulation”.

State Division Spokesperson Matthew Miller stated in an announcement that Blinken emphasised the Purple Sea is a significant business hall that facilitates worldwide commerce and “welcomed elevated cooperation with India in defending freedom of navigation within the area”.

Jaishankar and Blinken additionally mentioned the Israel-Hamas battle, efforts to forestall the escalation and improve the supply of humanitarian help to civilians in Gaza. Blinken additionally mentioned Russia’s battle of aggression towards Ukraine, the assertion stated.

In a publish on X, Jaishankar stated he had a “good dialogue” with “my buddy” Blinken.

“Our dialog targeted on maritime safety challenges, particularly the Purple Sea area. Appreciated his insights on ongoing scenario in West Asia, together with Gaza,” Jaishankar stated.

The Indian chief added that they exchanged views on developments pertaining to the Ukraine battle. “Wanting ahead to realizing our in depth cooperation agenda for 2024,” Jaishankar stated.

In a publish on X, Miller stated Blinken had a “productive name” with Jaishankar, “discussing U.S.-India partnership for shielding freedom of navigation in crucial waterways”.