UK and France to co-host 40-nation summit to restore shipping in Strait of Hormuz
LONDON : UK and France will host a 40-nation summit this week to restore navigation in the Strait of Hormuz as global shipping disruptions continue The United Kingdom and France will this week co-host a summit of around 40 countries aimed at restoring freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, as geopolitical tensions continue to disrupt one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in a post on X that the ongoing disruption in the Strait is “deeply damaging” and is contributing to global cost-of-living pressures by affecting energy and shipping flows. He said more than 40 nations have now been brought together to coordinate efforts to ensure safe maritime passage in the region.
Starmer added that the UK and France will jointly advance plans at a conference this week to develop a coordinated, independent multinational framework to protect international shipping once conditions improve. He said Britain has already helped rally broad international support for restoring freedom of navigation, though earlier discussions did not include the United States.
Earlier in the day, French President Emmanuel Macron said the initiative envisions a “strictly defensive” naval mission that would operate independently of parties to the conflict and could be deployed when circumstances allow. In a post on X, he said the proposal is aimed at strengthening long-term maritime security and safeguarding global shipping lanes.
Macron also called for intensified diplomatic efforts to achieve a durable settlement to regional tensions, stressing the need to address Iran’s nuclear and ballistic programmes, wider security concerns, and the restoration of safe passage through the Strait. He further said discussions would include stabilising Lebanon and upholding its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The Strait of Hormuz, which handles nearly a fifth of global oil shipments, has seen sharply reduced traffic amid escalating tensions in West Asia. While limited commercial movement has resumed following a ceasefire, shipping volumes remain well below normal levels, highlighting ongoing risks to global energy supply chains.
The developments come amid renewed escalation in the region. US President Donald Trump has announced a naval blockade of ships entering and leaving Iranian ports, intensifying pressure on Tehran after stalled ceasefire talks. He has blamed Iran’s nuclear programme for the breakdown in negotiations and said Washington remains prepared to consider all options.
Source : Moneycontrol
