The G7 transport ministers, who met virtually on Tuesday 20 February, welcomed the EU maritime security operation to preserve freedom of navigation in the context of the crisis in the Red Sea, EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, launched the previous day (see EUROPE 13353/8).
They strongly condemned the attacks carried out by the Houthis against commercial vessels and navy ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The ministers stressed that these actions violate international law, endanger innocent lives and threaten the rights and freedoms of navigation.
They stressed the crucial importance of maritime safety and the rights and freedoms of navigation in ensuring the uninterrupted flow of essential commodities around the world.
“Enhanced coordination and timely sharing of information are paramount to safeguard maritime corridors, as they are the backbone of European and global supply chains”, said Transport Commissioner Adina Vãlean in a statement.
“Through the EU maritime operation EUNAVFOR ASPIDES and close cooperation within the G7, we are taking concrete steps to facilitate smooth freight transport flows and ensure the safety of seafarers and the ships they sail on”, she added.
Read the G7 declaration: https://aeur.eu/f/axf (Original version in French by Anne Damiani)