Rajnath Singh Calls for Strengthened Global Naval Cooperation at MILAN Summit
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has made a compelling appeal for enhanced international naval collaboration during his address at the MILAN summit. He underscored the critical importance of fostering stronger partnerships among global navies to address emerging security challenges and promote maritime stability.
New Tensions Over Underwater Resources Highlighted
In his speech, Singh pointed out that increasing global focus on underwater resources, particularly rare-earth minerals, is introducing a fresh dimension to international tensions. He emphasized that these valuable resources, essential for modern technologies, are becoming a focal point of geopolitical competition, necessitating coordinated naval efforts to manage potential conflicts.
The defence minister stressed that as nations vie for access to these underwater assets, the risk of disputes escalates, making it imperative for navies worldwide to work together. He noted that such cooperation is vital not only for resource management but also for ensuring freedom of navigation and upholding international maritime laws.
Key Points from the Address
- Enhanced Collaboration: Singh advocated for deeper naval ties to tackle shared threats like piracy, terrorism, and environmental hazards.
- Resource Security: He highlighted the strategic significance of rare-earth minerals and the need for peaceful exploitation through joint initiatives.
- Global Stability: The minister called for a unified approach to maintain peace in maritime domains, especially in resource-rich regions.
This address at the MILAN summit, a premier multilateral naval exercise, reflects India's proactive stance in shaping global maritime discourse. Singh's remarks aim to galvanize international action towards sustainable and secure use of ocean resources, amid growing complexities in underwater geopolitics.