The G7 Foreign Ministers, alongside the High Representative of the European Union, have issued a statement reaffirming their commitment to ensuring a free and secure maritime domain. This commitment is grounded in international law and aims to bolster global security, economic prosperity, and sustainable use of marine resources.
"Maritime security and prosperity are fundamental to global stability," the ministers stated. They highlighted that over 80% of global trade relies on sea transport, with 97% of data flowing through submarine cables. Disruptions pose threats to food security, energy supply chains, and economic stability.
The ministers expressed concern over rising risks such as strategic contestation and illicit shipping activities. They noted that state behavior has increased conflict risk and environmental damage. The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) was recognized as essential for governing ocean activities.
"We welcome related work presently underway through other G7 ministerial tracks," they added, emphasizing efforts in securing undersea cable networks and combating abandoned fishing gear.
The declaration also addressed freedom of navigation concerns in areas like the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea. "We condemn China’s illicit... actions," they stated, citing risks to regional stability from land reclamations and military outposts.
In addition to condemning unilateral status quo changes by force or coercion, particularly in East Asia's seas, they committed to tracking such attempts systematically.
Critical infrastructure protection was another focus area: "We share a growing concern that undersea communications cables... have been subject to critical damage." The EU Action Plan on Cable Security was welcomed as part of this effort.
On maritime crime: "We have been working together to tackle these maritime crimes," recognizing challenges from piracy to illegal fishing impacting security and economies.
Addressing trade freedom threats posed by Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, they called for immediate release of seized vessels like “Galaxy Leader.” They commended operations safeguarding shipping lanes like EU’s “Aspides” operation.
Concerns were raised about unsafe shipping practices circumventing sanctions using shadow fleets. The formation of a Shadow Fleet Task Force was proposed involving Nordic-Baltic nations among others for enhanced monitoring.
Lastly, enhancing maritime supply chain resilience amid geopolitical tensions was stressed. Cooperation with organizations like ASEAN was encouraged for energy and food security initiatives such as Africa’s Integrated Maritime Strategy 2050.
"We welcome robust cooperation with Partners...to build a free...maritime order based on rule of law," concluded the statement while acknowledging various forums supporting these objectives.