Recent 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by Iran and United States on June 17 has boosted flow of energy,fertilizer shipments to India,says Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). At June 23 press briefing in New Delhi,MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted that since MoU,eleven vessels bound for India have crossed Strait of Hormuz successfully.
Jaiswal explained vessels included three Indian-flagged crude oil tankers,each carrying over 285,000 metric tonnes of crude oil,plus a foreign-flagged LPG carrier,another foreign-flagged crude oil tanker,and six foreign-flagged bulk carriers with fertilizer. Said shipping developments are encouraging.
Currently,ten Indian-flagged vessels remain in Persian Gulf,two recently arrived. These ships were part of larger group stranded since U.S.-Israel and Iran hostilities began. Jaiswal hopeful remaining vessels will soon transit Strait of Hormuz.
MEA spokesperson highlighted that resuming maritime traffic depends on continued halt in hostilities,which previously caused major disruptions. Safety of Indian ships,crews is top priority for Government of India as Gulf tensions have risen since February 28.
Jaiswal's comments show cautious optimism about normalizing shipping routes vital for India's energy,fertilizer needs. MoU's impact on maritime operations shows how diplomatic moves can stabilize trade flows in region…
