The significance of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) has been increasing due to the presence of Non-Resident Global powers like the US and Russia.
Powers are drawn to the IOR for reasons:
- The Indo-Pacific region as an integrated maritime theatre prompts countries to adopt a strategic approach.
- Geostrategic competition is intense, especially between China and democratic countries promoting a rules-based order.
- Maritime passages like the Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Malacca are crucial for the free flow of trade and energy security.
- The blue economy is vital as IOR’s littoral and island countries, containing about a third of the global population, rely heavily on marine resources.
Region faces multiple challenges:
- Power asymmetry among regional countries, with smaller states depending on external powers for security.
- Piracy and maritime terrorism occasionally disrupt security.
- Naval aggressions from China, including confrontations and the presence of spy vessels.
- Ecological crises exacerbated by climate change.
Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) holds significant importance:
- It is the sole pan-Indian Ocean multilateral grouping.
- It connects three continents: Asia, Africa, and Australia, facilitating better negotiations.
- Coupled with India’s SAGAR initiative, it aims to counter threats like the China-led ‘China-IOR Forum’.
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