MUSCAT, 16 February 2025—External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Sunday described the Indian Ocean as a “global lifeline” and called for stronger regional cooperation to advance development, connectivity, maritime security, and economic stability.
Speaking at the 8th Indian Ocean Conference in Muscat, themed Voyage to New Horizons of Maritime Partnership, he urged nations to align policies and build on mutual strengths.
“Our voyage to new horizons is best undertaken as a coordinated flotilla,” Jaishankar said. “While we may differ in history, geography, development, politics, or culture, what unites us is a shared commitment to the well-being of the Indian Ocean region.”
Jaishankar underscored the need for stability amid global uncertainty. “In a volatile era, security is the baseline, but beyond that, we have ambitions and aspirations. Achieving them will be easier when we support each other, supplement strengths, and coordinate policies,” he said.
Jaishankar pointed to shifting global affairs, particularly conflicts in the Middle East and West Asia, which he said have led to severe disruptions. “At the two ends of the ocean, instability is at its sharpest. In the Middle East and West Asia, ongoing conflict risks further escalation, with direct maritime consequences seen in disrupted global shipping and economic strain,” he said.
In the Indo-Pacific, tensions and rivalries have intensified, adding to regional uncertainty. Meanwhile, many Indian Ocean nations, like other parts of the Global South, continue to grapple with resource constraints and economic pressures. “Sustainable Development Goals remain out of reach for many, with debt being a major concern. While some of these challenges stem from global economic pressures, others result from imprudent borrowing and unsustainable projects,” Jaishankar said.
Jaishankar also addressed the need to rebuild connectivity in the region after colonial-era disruptions. “For connectivity initiatives to be truly shared, they must be consultative and transparent, not unilateral and opaque,” he said.
He further pointed to challenges Indian Ocean states face in securing their Exclusive Economic Zones, protecting fishing rights, and combating illegal trafficking and terrorism. “Each of these concerns has a significant maritime dimension, and our journey to new horizons must focus on tackling these issues,” he added.
India, he said, is actively contributing by strengthening ties with regional neighbors, enhancing capabilities, providing crisis support, and assuming leadership when necessary.
