Will India join efforts to secure the Strait of Hormuz? Major deliberations expected at Modi-Macron meeting at G7

New Delhi: Amid rising tensions in West Asia and the deteriorating security situation around the Strait of Hormuz, France has proposed including India in a key maritime security initiative.

Will the G7 discuss the issue? 

 This issue is expected to be discussed in detail during the bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron at the G7 summit.
France is working with several partner nations on a multinational initiative to ensure freedom of navigation and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz. There is a possibility that India will also be included in this initiative. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most critical maritime trade routes, through which a significant portion of the global oil supply passes.
According to media reports, officials indicated that defense cooperation, maritime security, the procurement of military equipment, strategic partnership, and the current situation in West Asia will be key topics during the talks between Prime Minister Modi and President Macron. Security in the Gulf region has become a global concern due to escalating tensions between Iran, the US, and Israel in recent months.

Separate meeting involving India, the US, Qatar? 

On the sidelines of the G7 summit, a special meeting focused on West Asia will also take place, with leaders from India, the US, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates likely to participate. Discussions at this meeting may cover regional security, energy supplies, and the safety of maritime trade routes.
Briefing the media on Prime Minister Modi's visits to France and Slovakia, Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (West) Siby George stated that the meeting between Modi and Macron would cover all global and regional issues, including the situation in West Asia. He indicated that new initiatives and announcements recently made by various countries would also be deliberated upon.
French officials emphasized that keeping maritime routes open and secure is vital for the global economy. They stated that while France is not a party to any conflict, instability in the Gulf region impacts the entire world; therefore, strengthening maritime security through international cooperation is essential. Describing India as a key strategic partner, France stated that the level of trust and cooperation between the two nations is exceptionally strong. Citing French sources, the report notes that India has now become part of almost all major forums associated with the G7, and its role in global affairs is steadily growing. Meanwhile, Siby George also indicated that significant announcements regarding the defense sector could be made during Prime Minister Modi's visit to Slovakia, scheduled for June 14–16.