Context:

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar recently addressed the Eighth Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) held in Muscat, Oman, where he discussed the current geopolitical challenges impacting the Indian Ocean region.

India, in partnership with Singapore and Oman, is hosted the Eighth Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) in Muscat, Oman.

Issues Addressed:

1. Geopolitical Instability: The Foreign Minister highlighted the instability in both West Asia and the Indo-Pacific. Disruptions to global shipping due to conflicts in West Asia and rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific were emphasized, with a call to respect international law and avoid unilateral changes to the status quo.
2. Adherence to Agreements: He stressed the importance of nations adhering to agreements and respecting international norms to maintain regional stability and security.
3. Challenges for Littoral States: The issue of resource constraints, debt burdens, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) challenges faced by island nations in the Indian Ocean was raised. These complications affect the monitoring of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) and efforts to prevent illegal activities.
4. Rebuilding Connectivity: There was a focus on the need for transparent and inclusive connectivity initiatives to rebuild after colonial disruptions and ensure equal benefits for all nations in the region.
5. Security Concerns: Concerns were raised about illegal trafficking, terrorism, and the protection of fishing interests in the Indian Ocean. Regional cooperation was called for to effectively address these pressing issues.

Importance of the Indian Ocean

Cultural and Civilizational Connect

Unlike the geopolitical "Indo-Pacific," the Indian Ocean is a largely peaceful region with deep historical, cultural, and civilizational ties. Spanning the shores of 26 countries, it serves as a lifeline for landlocked nations like Nepal and Bhutan, linking them to global trade.

Economic Importance

The Indian Ocean is a crucial trade route, handling 70% of the world’s container traffic. It facilitates 80% of India’s external trade and 90% of its energy trade, making it a critical global economic hub.

Strategic Importance

The Indian Ocean also holds strategic significance, with increasing military and commercial activities. Global powers like the US, UK, and France maintain a strong presence in the region, and China is actively investing to expand its influence.

Steps Taken by India to Enhance its Maritime Influence and Key Concerns

Steps Taken

In 2015, India launched the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative to enhance its maritime influence and ensure regional security.

Key Concerns

India faces several challenges in the region, including piracy, terrorism, illegal fishing, and human trafficking. Additionally, issues like climate change, rising sea levels, and the influence of Chinese companies, such as Huawei, in undersea communication networks, require attention.