The Indian Ocean Region (IOR), bridging the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, is a critical axis of global trade and geopolitical interest. Experts convened at a webinar by CUTS International discussed the IOR’s strategic, economic, and environmental roles. Bipul Chattopadhyay, Executive Director of CUTS International, emphasized viewing the IOR not just through a strategic lens but also for connectivity and trade. Vice Admiral Shekhar Sinha, Co-Founder of DeepStrat, stressed the importance of the region, noting key chokepoints like the Malacca Strait and the Gulf of Aden. Sinha also highlighted China’s growing influence and the Quad’s role in promoting maritime diplomacy.

Amanda Aspden, Director of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), highlighted regional cooperation and India’s leadership within IORA. Kiran Pervez from the U.S. Department of State emphasized building sustainable blue economies and the U.S.’s commitment to long-term regional engagement. She noted the importance of the U.S.-India partnership and initiatives like IORA’s blue ocean policy and the Quad.

Grant Wyeth, Editor of Asia Pacific Development Diplomacy & Defence Dialogue, presented Australia’s perspective, noting the strategic alignment between Australia and India, particularly in response to increased Chinese activities. He mentioned the AUKUS agreement’s impact on Australia’s Indian Ocean strategy and the influence of the diaspora on cooperation.

The webinar was part of the Indo-Pacific Civil Society Forum by CUTS International, connecting Civil Society Organisations across the Indo-Pacific. It highlighted the IOR’s significance in global trade and geopolitics, with India emerging as a key player in regional stability and security. CUTS International works on public policy issues, focusing on trade, regulation, governance, capacity building, and advocacy.