New Delhi, Sept. 11 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said India is building economic bridges through dozens of trade agreements while many others turn more protectionist, making a strong case for barrier-free trade within Brics and for the freedom of navigation and safety of seafarers.

Global trade can accelerate only when sea lanes are secure, supply routes remain open, and seafarers are safe, Modi said at the Leaders' Session of the Brics Business Forum on the eve of the Brics Summit on 12-13 September.

The statement comes amid growing concerns over seafarers operating in areas hit by the West Asia conflict. More than 15 seafarers, many of them Indians, have been killed in attacks on merchant vessels in and around the Strait ...