New York, April 28 -- India underlined the need to ensure safe and unimpeded maritime passage and stronger international coordination to safeguard global waterways, reiterating its stance for free and lawful navigation amid the increasing threats and restrictions to commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

Addressing the UN Security Council Open Debate on Monday, "The Safety and Protection of Waterways in the Maritime Domain", Charge d'Affaires Yojna Patel reiterated India's position, stating that the "freedom of navigation and global commerce through the Strait of Hormuz must be fully respected in accordance with international law and urges that safe and unimpeded maritime passage be restored ...