Jaishankar Calls for Collaborative Efforts to Secure Indian Ocean Region’s Future
Jaishankar Calls for Collaborative Efforts to Secure Indian Ocean Region’s Future
Strategic Vision for a Vital Global Lifeline
February 16, 2025
Muscat, Oman: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar underscored the significance of the Indian Ocean in global stability, trade, and security at the 8th Indian Ocean Conference in Muscat. Speaking on the theme “Voyage to New Horizons of Maritime Partnership,” he urged nations to synchronize policies, support each other, and enhance maritime security to address emerging geopolitical challenges.
“The Indian Ocean is veritably a global lifeline,” Jaishankar stated. “Its production, consumption, contribution, and connectivity are central to how the world operates today.”
Navigating a Changing Geopolitical Landscape
Jaishankar highlighted growing global disruptions, particularly in the Middle East and Indo-Pacific. He pointed to conflicts in West Asia that have fueled instability and impacted maritime trade, leading to economic repercussions. Simultaneously, tensions in the Indo-Pacific have escalated geopolitical rivalries, posing threats to regional security.
“At the two ends of the ocean, this churn is at its sharpest today,” he remarked. “The Middle East is witnessing serious conflicts, while the Indo-Pacific faces increasing contestations. These factors collectively impact maritime security and global shipping routes.”
Economic Challenges and the Need for Inclusive Growth
Jaishankar emphasized the economic struggles faced by Indian Ocean nations, particularly those in the Global South. Many are dealing with debt distress and slowdowns, often exacerbated by unviable infrastructure projects and unsustainable borrowing. He stressed the importance of transparency in connectivity initiatives for sustainable development.
“To make this a truly shared endeavor, it is vital to ensure that connectivity initiatives are consultative and transparent,” he asserted.
Additionally, he addressed key maritime issues, including monitoring Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), securing fishing rights, and combating illegal trafficking and maritime terrorism. These concerns, he noted, require collective regional action.
India’s Leadership in Maritime Security and Connectivity
Jaishankar outlined India’s 10-point framework for its contributions to the Indian Ocean region:
- Economic Stability: India has played a critical role in stabilizing economies, including providing a $4 billion aid package to Sri Lanka.
- Advancing Connectivity: Projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) enhance trade routes.
- Disaster Relief: India has led responses to oil spills, natural disasters, and humanitarian crises.
- Strengthening Regional Institutions: India actively supports BIMSTEC, the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS).
- Maritime Security: Indian naval deployments in the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden help protect global shipping routes.
- Plurilateral Cooperation: Through platforms like Quad and ReCAAP, India fosters collective maritime security.
- Naval Capacity Building: India provides training and equipment to regional navies and coast guards.
- Securing Digital Communications: India is spearheading efforts to strengthen cyber and communication security.
- Balancing Global Powers: India mediates between resident and non-resident powers, ensuring compliance with UNCLOS.
- Institutionalizing Cooperation: India continues to develop multilateral platforms to address maritime challenges.
A Call for Collective Action
Jaishankar concluded by urging Indian Ocean nations to set aside differences and collaborate on security, connectivity, and economic resilience.
“In a volatile and uncertain era, we seek stability and security as the baseline. But beyond that, there are ambitions and aspirations that we strive to achieve. They will be easier reached when we look out for each other, supplement our strengths, and coordinate our policies,” he stated.
As India takes the lead in maritime security and economic connectivity, the Indian Ocean region stands at a crucial juncture. Ensuring a future of peace, trade, and prosperity will require transparency, cooperation, and shared responsibility among all stakeholders.
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