Brussels: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer highlighted the critical need to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz during a recent phone call. The talks are timely as Kaja Kallas, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, prepares to join an emergency virtual meeting of foreign ministers. The meeting, organized by Britain, will include about 35 countries and is led by France and the United Kingdom to address the reopening of the strait and secure safe passage.
According to Emirates News Agency, Prime Minister Starmer emphasized on Wednesday that de-escalating the conflict and reopening the Strait of Hormuz is crucial to tackling Britain's cost-of-living crisis. Thursday's meeting aims to evaluate possible diplomatic and political actions to restore navigation freedom, ensure the safety of stranded ships and seafarers, and resume the flow of essential commodities.
The participation of ministers and representatives from numerous countries indicates the growing international concern over the ongoing disruption in one of the world's key energy transit routes. Last month, the coalition of 35 countries issued a joint statement condemning the 'effective closure' of the strait, reiterating that freedom of navigation is a fundamental principle of international law.
Fabian Zuleeg, Chief Executive of the European Policy Centre, a think tank based in Brussels, noted that the likely resolution of the conflict would involve some form of European engagement to ensure safe passage through the Strait. He stated, "In my view, once there is some form of ceasefire, there is no choice for the Europeans but to become involved in some way or form."
