Rapid Fire
9th Indian Ocean Conference
- 14 Apr 2026
- 3 min read
At the 9th Indian Ocean Conference in Mauritius, India reaffirmed its firm opposition to the targeting of civilians, infrastructure, and commercial shipping amid the escalating 2026 West Asia conflict, while calling for de-escalation and stability.
- No delegate attended from the Maldives, as diplomatic ties between Mauritius and the Maldives have been suspended over territorial differences related to the Chagos Islands. Meanwhile, Bangladesh emphasized the need to “revitalise SAARC” to strengthen regional cooperation.
- Impact on the Indian Ocean Region (IOR): India highlighted the severe economic implications of the West Asia conflict on energy security, trade, and fertilizer supply chains across the IOR, stressing the absolute necessity of maintaining safe and unimpeded maritime navigation.
- India-Mauritius Energy Pact: To safeguard against regional volatility, India is finalizing an agreement to supply oil and gas to Mauritius, strategically bolstering the island nation's energy security.
- Indian Ocean Conference: It was launched in 2016 by the India Foundation in collaboration with regional think tanks and has grown into a key consultative platform with participation from over 40 countries.
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It serves as a flagship forum for discussing regional affairs in the IOR and promotes cooperation under the vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).
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- Indian Ocean Region (IOR): It is a vast maritime region spanning over 70 million sq. km, stretching from Africa to Australia and covering nearly 20% of the world’s water surface.
- It is a vital global trade hub where half of the world’s container ships, one-third of bulk cargo, and two-thirds of oil shipments pass through.
- The region connects 35+ littoral states and is home to nearly 40% of the global population, highlighting its immense strategic and economic significance.
- India plays a critical role in the IOR as a net security provider and primary stabilizing force, driven by the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision.
| Read more: India's Renewed Focus on Indian Ocean Region |
