Talks on between Somali pirates, shipping firms for release of crew

Negotiations between Somali pirates and shipping companies owning the hijacked vessels, MV Khaliq and MV Kota Wajar, have begun, an government official said today.

"Negotiations are currently on between the pirates and the shipping companies to secure the release of their crew members," director general of shipping (DGS) Lakshmi Venkatachalam told reporters here.

DGS is playing the coordinator's role, she said, adding that all crew members in both the vessels are safe.

It is understood that the Government of Singapore is also taking initiatives to free the shippers of the hijacked vessel 'MV Kota Wajar'.

Similarly, the management of 'MV Khaliq' also started negotiations with the pirates.

The DGS is also in touch with the ministry of external affairs and ministry of defence besides the Kenyan High Commission.

Indian naval ships in the area have also been asked to be more vigilant, Venkatachalam said.

MV Khaliq and MV Kota Wajar were hijacked in Gulf of Aden on October 22 and October 15, respectively.

Recently, DGS strongly advised all Indian flag-ships and ships carrying Indian seafarers to utilise the escort services being provided by Indian naval ships in the Gulf of Aden to the maximum extent.