The Hindu : National : India consulting Russia, Japan on piracy

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India consulting Russia, Japan on piracy

Sandeep Dikshit

NEW DELHI: With the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) unwilling to put its ships under the command of a United Nations operation to control piracy in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden, India is looking for cooperation with Russia and Japan besides some countries of the Indian Ocean Rim. “We are considering cooperation with Indian Ocean Rim countries and Russia and Japan till consultations on a U.N. operation fructify. We are finding a very positive response,” said sources.

India has unequivocally given its preference for a U.N.-led mission to control piracy, which began off the coast of Somalia but has gripped the high seas as well.

However, it has received signals of NATO’s reluctance to operate under a U.N. command on grounds that the multinational body has no experience in marine peacekeeping operations of this magnitude. NATO nations are comfortable with working together, as equipment is common and they have extensive experience of working with each other. While continuing to operate its fleet independently, NATO wants coordination and real-time awareness of the position of ships from other countries or blocs.

Since India is averse to joining a fleet other than a U.N.-mandated operation, it is consulting Russia and Japan besides other countries in the region for logistical support and knowledge of their location.

India holds the Indra series of exercises with Russia and almost all its frontline warships are of Russian origin. It recently signed a security agreement with Japan although both countries are selective with such pacts. “We are very uncomfortable working under someone. We have never done that in 60 years,” said sources.

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