New Delhi, March 20 -- India has reiterated its strong support for safe and free navigation through key global maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, amid the West Asia conflict, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Friday.

Addressing the inter-ministerial briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India has consistently maintained that shipping routes across the world must remain open and secure for global trade and energy supplies.

Responding to a question from a reporter, Jaiswal said, "Your question about the Strait of Hormuz. See, whether it is the Strait of Hormuz or any other water passage in the world, it has been our side, India's side, that we are in favour of safe and free navigation or movement of our ship...