Liberia: Liberia, India Discuss Strengthening Maritime Safety and Security

What the report says

Liberia and India are moving to deepen cooperation on maritime safety and security, according to AllAfrica’s report from The New Republic Liberia. Liberia’s Foreign Affairs Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti said the two countries should use their influence in the global shipping sector to better protect vessels and seafarers. The discussion took place in New York during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, where Nyanti co-chaired the inaugural meeting of the Group of Friends on Safety and Security of Shipping and Seafarers with India’s External Affairs Minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.

The meeting came days after a Liberia-registered liquefied petroleum gas tanker, the M.T. Al Maryah, was reportedly struck by a drone near the Strait of Hormuz on September 20, 2026. The vessel was said to have avoided major damage and its crew was reported safe. The incident was cited as part of wider concerns about threats to commercial shipping in regions affected by conflict.

Jaishankar pointed to repeated attacks on commercial vessels and seafarers in the Gulf, Red Sea and Black Sea, warning that these events disrupt trade and endanger crews. India also proposed a Seafarers Emergency Support Network to provide alerts, medical help, family communication and evacuation support. More broadly, the talks reflect Liberia’s interest in maritime security, including its large ship registry, and show how countries are seeking practical steps to improve protection for international shipping.