Context: Indian Ocean Conference
At the 9th Indian Ocean Conference (Port Louis, Mauritius), India stated its firm opposition to targeting civilians, infrastructure, and disruption of maritime navigation in the backdrop of the West Asia conflict, highlighting its impact on trade, energy, and regional stability.
Indian Ocean Conference
• Type: Annual dialogue platform (NOT an organization)
• Organised by: India Foundation (with MEA support)
• Nature: No fixed members → countries participate as invitees
• Participants: Countries of Indian Ocean Region (IOR) (India, Mauritius, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Gulf countries, ASEAN states, African littorals)
Purpose:
• Discuss maritime security
• Ensure safe navigation (sea lanes)
• Address energy & trade disruptions
• Promote regional cooperation in Indo-Pacific
Key Points from Article
- India’s stand: Opposes targeting civilians + infrastructure + shipping disruption
- Maritime focus: Need for safe, uninterrupted navigation in Indian Ocean
- Conflict impact: West Asia crisis affecting energy supply, trade, fertilizers
- Regional stability: Concern over global fragmentation → need for rules-based order
- Energy security: India working to secure oil & gas supply
- Regional cooperation: Call for collective action and revival of platforms like SAARC
