Indian Ocean Conference was started by India Foundation in 2016 in Singapore with participation from 30 countries.
- It has emerged as a flagship consultative forum for countries in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) over regional affairs and deliberate upon regional cooperation for Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).
India's Role in the IOR
- First Responder Role: India helps in stabilising economies under stress such as Sri Lanka and quickly provides aid during disasters and conflicts through supply of essential items such as medicines, vaccines, fuel and fertilizers etc.
- Connectivity Initiatives: India leads key regional projects like the IMEC, IMTT, and INSTC to enhance connectivity.
- Encouraging Plurilateral Cooperation: Focusing on maritime security and disaster management cooperation through Quad, ReCAAP centre at Singapore, International Maritime Fusion Centre, White Shipping Agreements etc.
- Maritime Deployments: In Northern Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden.
- Institution-Building: India’s role in Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), Colombo Security Conclave etc.
Significance of IOR for India
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