WASHINGTON (CHATNEWSTV) — In a joint statement released on March 14, 2025, the Foreign Ministers of the G7 nations, along with the High Representative of the European Union, reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, and secure maritime domain, emphasizing its role in global stability, economic prosperity, and the sustainable use of marine resources.
The statement underscores the importance of the maritime domain, noting that over 80% of global trade is transported by sea and that 97% of global data flows through submarine cables. “Maritime security and prosperity are fundamental to global stability, economic resilience, and the well-being of all nations,” the statement reads. “Disruptions to maritime routes pose a direct threat to international food security, critical minerals, energy security, global supply chains, and economic stability.”
The G7 ministers also expressed deep concern over growing risks to maritime security, including threats to freedom of navigation and increasing illicit shipping activities. They condemned actions by China in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait, as well as dangerous vessel maneuvers and illegal maritime activities that undermine international law.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken, representing the U.S., emphasized the importance of preserving freedom of navigation and maintaining stability in strategic maritime regions. “We cannot allow any nation to unilaterally alter the status quo by force or coercion,” Blinken said. “The safety of international waters is crucial to global peace and economic prosperity.”
The ministers also highlighted efforts to protect critical maritime infrastructure, such as undersea cables, and condemned activities that damage these vital communication and energy networks. “We share a growing concern that undersea communications cables have been subject to critical damage through sabotage, poor seamanship, or irresponsible behavior,” the statement reads.
The declaration also addressed maritime crime, including piracy, illegal fishing, and sanctions evasion. The G7 countries expressed commitment to tackling these issues through enhanced international cooperation, including the creation of a Shadow Fleet Task Force to monitor and constrain illegal maritime activities.
In addition, the G7 ministers voiced concerns over unsafe shipping practices, particularly the use of “shadow fleets” to circumvent international safety and environmental standards. “We will strengthen our coordination among the G7 and with other partners to prevent the use of unregistered, poorly maintained vessels engaged in illicit activities,” the statement said.
Looking to the future, the G7 committed to enhancing maritime supply chain resilience and safeguarding global food and energy security. “We welcome maritime initiatives intended to promote energy and food security, especially for developing nations reliant on stable shipping routes,” the ministers said, referencing efforts like the Grain from Ukraine initiative.
The statement concluded with an invitation for broader cooperation with non-G7 countries and regional organizations, including the ASEAN and the International Maritime Organization, to help promote a free, open, and prosperous maritime order based on the rule of law.
“We look forward to furthering these efforts through partnerships that support maritime security, resilience, and sustainability,” the G7 ministers added.
