On 21st March, 2025, the 4th India-EU (European Union) Maritime Security Dialogue was successfully held in New Delhi, bringing together key stakeholders to reinforce their shared commitment to a secure and sustainable maritime environment. The Indian delegation, led by Ms. Muanpuii Saiawi, Joint Secretary (Disarmament & International Security Affairs) at the Ministry of External Affairs, and the EU delegation, headed by Mr. Maciej Stadejek, Director for Security and Defence Policy, European External Action Service, engaged in discussions that highlighted the importance of international cooperation in maritime security.
The two parties held discussions on strategies to maintain a secure maritime environment that promotes inclusive growth and enhances global well-being. During the meeting, they evaluated current collaborative efforts within the maritime sector and explored new opportunities to strengthen both international and regional frameworks aimed at ensuring comprehensive maritime security. They emphasised the importance of enhancing their joint initiatives in key areas such as combating illicit maritime activities (IMA), safeguarding vital maritime infrastructure, advancing regional capabilities, and fostering capacity-building programmes. Additionally, they acknowledged the necessity of fostering deeper cooperation to address emerging maritime threats, while reinforcing existing partnerships to secure safe and sustainable maritime practices for the long term.
The Dialogue reflects the commitment of European Union and India to uphold a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based maritime framework in the Indo-Pacific region. This commitment is grounded in the principles of respecting territorial integrity and sovereignty, democracy, the rule of law, freedom of navigation and overflight, unobstructed lawful trade, and the peaceful settlement of disputes in line with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
This dialogue follows the recent visit of the College of Commissioners to India, during which Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed their contentment with the expanding collaboration in the defence and security sectors. This includes joint exercises and partnerships between the Indian Navy and EU maritime security agencies. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to international peace and security, particularly maritime security, by addressing both traditional and non-traditional threats to protect trade routes and sea lanes of communication. One of the main outcomes of the visit was the enhancement of cooperation on maritime domain awareness, aimed at promoting shared assessments, better coordination, and improved interoperability.
Moreover, naval collaboration between the EU and India has grown in recent years, highlighted by successful joint exercises in the Gulf of Guinea and the Gulf of Aden.
In conclusion, the 4th India-EU Maritime Security Dialogue marked another important step in enhancing cooperation between two key maritime powers. By strengthening regional and international mechanisms for maritime security, India and the EU are working together to safeguard the maritime domain and promote a secure environment for global trade and prosperity. Both sides expressed optimism about the future of this partnership and pledged to continue their efforts towards a peaceful, secure, and prosperous maritime future.
