New Delhi: India is working to bring back 13 crew members of an Indian tanker attacked near Limah, Oman, on Monday evening, along with the mortal remains of an Indian national killed in the incident, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesman, Randhir Jaiswal, said on Tuesday. The vessel, identified as MSV Al Jusufi, was carrying 14 Indian nationals, of whom 13 were rescued by Omani authorities.
“We are working to bring the remaining 13 crew members back to India, along with the mortal remains of the deceased,” Jaiswal said during the ministry’s weekly media briefing.
In an earlier statement, the MEA condemned the attack and conveyed its condolences over the loss of life. It said the Indian embassy in Oman was coordinating with Omani authorities following the incident.
“The continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply concerning,” the ministry said, calling for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations for a diplomatic solution.
The MEA also called for an end to attacks on commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure, urging the restoration of free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through international waterways in accordance with international law.
Jaiswal also confirmed the death of an Indian national in a helicopter collision in Nepal. He said the government would make efforts to bring the mortal remains to India at the earliest.
On Indian nationals in Russia, Jaiswal said India remains in touch with Russian authorities regarding those who are still there. Meanwhile, India continues to engage with Uzbekistan on matters concerning Indian students in the country. The Indian embassy in Tashkent, along with the National Medical Commission, has issued an advisory for students seeking to pursue medical education in Uzbekistan.
Turning to India’s diplomatic engagements, Jaiswal said external affairs minister, S Jaishankar, held several bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the G20 summit, including with his Russian counterpart. The discussions covered developments in the Middle East, Europe and West Asia.
India reiterated its position that all parties should pursue dialogue and diplomacy to advance peace, he added.
On the proposed visit of Nepal’s prime minister to India, Jaiswal said the dates are being discussed through diplomatic channels and will be announced at the appropriate time.
Regarding Bangladesh, he said India is closely monitoring developments in the neighbouring country and remains committed to maintaining positive and forward-looking relations with Dhaka.