The G7 Foreign Ministers, representing Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America, along with the High Representative of the European Union, have issued a statement reaffirming their commitment to maintaining a free and secure maritime domain. This declaration emphasizes adherence to international law to enhance global security and economic prosperity while ensuring sustainable use of marine resources.
"Maritime security and prosperity are fundamental to global stability," they stated. They noted that disruptions in maritime routes could threaten international food security and economic stability. The ministers expressed concern over increasing risks such as strategic contestation and illicit shipping activities.
The ministers highlighted the role of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as a legal framework for ocean governance. They recalled previous G7 statements on maritime security from Lübeck (2015) and Hiroshima (2016) and welcomed ongoing efforts through various G7 ministerial tracks.
They condemned China's actions in areas like the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea that threaten regional stability. "We condemn China’s illicit, provocative, coercive and dangerous actions," they declared. The ministers also opposed unilateral attempts to change status quos by force or coercion.
Concerns were raised about threats to undersea infrastructure vital for energy and telecommunications. The ministers recalled joint statements from 2024 addressing cable connectivity security issues. They pledged enhanced cooperation with industry to mitigate risks.
Maritime crime remains a significant challenge impacting navigation freedom and economic prosperity. The ministers welcomed Italy's 2024 G7 Presidency Action Plan against migrant smuggling.
In response to Houthi attacks in the Red Sea affecting trade routes, they urged for immediate release of seized vessels like "Galaxy Leader." They commended efforts by EU’s operation “Aspides” and U.S.-led operation “Prosperity Guardian” in maintaining navigation freedom.
Addressing unsafe shipping practices was another focus area due to concerns over fraudulent registrations impacting global trade. Russia's circumvention of oil price caps using shadow fleets was highlighted as an issue requiring coordinated action among G7 members.
The ministers invited Nordic-Baltic countries to join a Shadow Fleet Task Force aimed at monitoring illegal maritime activities. Enhancing supply chain resilience is seen as crucial amid geopolitical tensions affecting energy and food security globally.
Port ownership scrutiny was emphasized due to potential national security vulnerabilities from foreign control over critical infrastructures. The declaration concluded with commitments towards sustainable stewardship of maritime resources including enforcement against Illegal Unreported Unregulated (IUU) fishing practices worldwide.