Highlighting India's longstanding position on maritime trade and navigation, Modi stressed that the safety of Indian sailors working across international shipping routes remains a matter of significant national concern.

During the bilateral meeting, the Prime Minister reiterated India's support for unrestricted maritime movement and called for ensuring safe passage through key global shipping corridors.

“We have always said that freedom of navigation should be ensured, and we should also stress upon that. Lakhs of Indian seafarers are on duty in different seas of the world in the sector of maritime trade. I believe that their security is equally important,” Modi told Trump.

The remarks came against the backdrop of rising tensions in the Gulf and recent attacks on commercial vessels operating near the Strait of Hormuz.

India's concerns have intensified following a series of attacks on vessels carrying Indian crew members in Gulf waters in recent weeks.

Several merchant ships employing Indian sailors have reportedly come under attack amid disruptions linked to the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and Iranian ports.

In one such incident, three Indian sailors lost their lives.

The developments have drawn political attention in India, with opposition parties questioning the government's response to the deaths of Indian nationals in attacks allegedly connected to foreign military actions.

The meeting between Modi and Trump marked their first face-to-face interaction in approximately 16 months.

During the discussions, the Prime Minister acknowledged efforts aimed at restoring stability in the Middle East and expressed hope that the peace process would yield lasting results.

“It is a pleasure to meet you, Mr President, and we met in Washington last year. Since then, there has been a new momentum in our relationship. There's a new energy... It is a pleasure for us that our two teams have set together the targets we have set. We are making every effort to achieve the targets, and we are moving forward very fast,” Modi said.

He also praised the progress made towards reducing tensions in the region while emphasising the importance of safeguarding critical maritime routes that support global trade.

Hormuz remains key concern

Modi highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most vital energy and shipping corridors.

The waterway handles a substantial share of global oil and gas shipments, making its uninterrupted operation critical for international commerce.

The Prime Minister stressed that maintaining the openness of the strait and preserving freedom of navigation are essential for global economic stability.

The discussion on maritime security formed part of broader talks between the two leaders on bilateral cooperation and regional developments during the G7 Summit in France.