Muscat, June 15: Indian Ambassador to Oman, Prashant Pise, met with 20 Indian crew members of the MT Jalveer in Muscat on Monday. These crew members are set to return to India.
According to a statement from the Indian Embassy in Oman, the crew was safely evacuated with the help of Omani authorities. The embassy reiterated its commitment to providing all possible assistance to Indian citizens in distress and ensuring their safe return home.
The Indian Embassy posted on the social media platform X, stating, “The Ambassador met with the 20 Indian crew members of MT Jalveer in Muscat and wished for their safe return. Following an incident related to the ship on June 11, the crew was safely evacuated with the cooperation of Omani authorities. The embassy is committed to providing immediate assistance and support to Indian citizens in distress and ensuring their safe return.”
Earlier, on June 11, the Indian Embassy reported that efforts were underway, with the assistance of the Royal Navy of Oman, to safely transport the Indian nationals from the MT Jalveer to Shinas Port.
Mukesh Mangal, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, stated during an inter-ministerial briefing on June 11 that all 20 Indian sailors aboard the MT Jalveer were safe following an attack near Shinas Port in Oman.
He expressed concern over the repeated disruptions in commercial shipping and emphasized the importance of safe and uninterrupted navigation in international waters according to international law.
Mangal noted, “Today, we also learned that a commercial vessel flagged under Guinea-Bissau was attacked near Oman’s Shinas Port. All 20 Indian crew members aboard the ship are reported safe. Our mission in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Omani authorities to ensure the safe evacuation of the Indian crew.”
He added, “The ongoing incidents affecting commercial shipping in this area are a significant concern. We reiterate the importance of ensuring the safety of sailors and maintaining uninterrupted navigation and commerce in international waters in accordance with international law.”
During the same briefing, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that New Delhi prioritizes the safety of Indian sailors. He expressed concern over the repeated attacks on vessels in West Asia.
He stated that these incidents are linked to ongoing conflicts in the region. Jaiswal reiterated India’s appeal for a resolution through dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace and stability as soon as possible.
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