MEA hosts diplomatic reception to introduce Prof Bimal N Patel as India’s candidate for ITLOS Judge

Ambassador Sibi George, Secretary (West) at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), hosted a diplomatic reception in New Delhi to introduce Prof Bimal N Patel as India’s candidate for the post of Judge at the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) for the 2026-2035 term, reports 24brussels.

The reception was attended by Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and diplomatic representatives of Member States of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared details of the event on X, highlighting that Secretary George presented Dr Patel to the distinguished guests.

During the event, Ambassador George reaffirmed India’s commitment to a free, fair, transparent, and rules-based maritime order. Dr Patel, a prominent Indian legal scholar in maritime law, currently serves as a member of the International Law Commission and is the Vice Chancellor of Rashtriya Raksha University in Gujarat. Jaiswal emphasized Dr Patel’s credentials, noting his significant contributions to the field.

The introduction of Dr Patel comes at a crucial time, as the ITLOS position requires a thorough understanding of international maritime law amid global challenges. India’s focus on a stable maritime framework is integral to its diplomatic strategy, reflecting its growing influence in regional and international waters.

This diplomatic initiative is not only a testament to India’s legal expertise but also reinforces its stance as a proactive participant in shaping a cooperative maritime order worldwide, a commitment that aligns with its broader foreign policy objectives.