India Summons Pakistani Envoy Over Naval Collision Incident

India has summoned Pakistan's Charge d'Affaires in New Delhi and lodged a strong protest over what it called “unacceptable and unprofessional conduct” by Pakistani naval units that resulted in a collision with an Indian Navy vessel.

The Ministry of External Affairs said the incident took place in international waters and did not cause any major damage. It said the conduct of the Pakistani naval ship was in direct contravention of Article 10 of the 1991 Agreement between India and Pakistan on Advance Notice on Military Exercises, Manoeuvres and Troops Movements.

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During the meeting, the Pakistani diplomat was asked to convey to the concerned authorities the need for military units to exercise due care and comply with relevant bilateral agreements to prevent a recurrence of such incidents, the MEA said. India has also directed its Charge d’Affaires in Islamabad to lodge a similar protest with Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The 1991 Agreement between India and Pakistan on Advance Notice on Military Exercises. Manoeuvres and Troops Movements outlines the procedures for military units to exercise due care and comply with relevant bilateral agreements. Article 10 of the agreement specifically prohibits naval vessels from engaging in activities that could lead to collisions.

The incident occurred on March 15, 2023, in international waters, approximately 500 nautical miles off the coast of New Delhi. The Indian Navy vessel involved was reportedly a P8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.

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India has issued an official statement condemning the Pakistani naval ship’s conduct and calling for military units to exercise due care and comply with relevant bilateral agreements. The Ministry of External Affairs has assured that diplomatic channels are being used to resolve the issue.

India has directed its Charge d’Affaires in Islamabad to lodge a similar protest with Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Highlighting the need for military units to exercise due care and comply with relevant bilateral agreements. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing to resolve the issue.