New Delhi: Hijacking of a ship by Somali
pirates which had among others six Indian sailors on board was
discussed between External Affairs Minister SM Krishna and
Egyptian Ambassador Khaled el Bakly, who agreed to coordinate
with the ship owner, a national of Egypt.
Government is continuing with its efforts to ensure
all possible help in seeking safe release of the sailors, held
captive by Somali pirates for more than seven months now,
official sources said in Delhi.
They said the Ambassador met Krishna and during the
meeting the envoy agreed to coordinate with the ship owner who
is an Egyptian and whose company was negotiating with the
pirates.
The Panama-flagged vessel, MV Suez, was captured by
the pirates on August 2 last year.
The ship`s crew includes four Pakistanis, six Indians,
four Sri Lankans and 11 Egyptians.
The Somali pirates have reportedly demanded USD 4
million for release of the six Indians and given a week-long
deadline for meeting their demand, which is to expire shortly.
Meanwhile, the families of captives have been
demanding immediate and resolute action by the Centre in the
matter.
PTI
