Evolving Geopolitical Centrality of the Western Indian Ocean Region (WIOR)

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In Summary

China increased naval presence in WIOR, a vital strategic, energy, and economic zone connecting Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, amid rising Chinese influence and maritime threats challenging regional stability.

In Summary

Recently, China sent a new navy fleet for escort missions in the Gulf of Aden and off the coast of Somalia.

Significance of WIOR

Strategic & Geopolitical: Connects key sea lanes linking the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
- It includes important chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz, Bab el-Mandeb, and Mozambique Channel.
Energy Security: Strait of Hormuz carries around 20 % of global oil shipments.
Economic: The total “ocean asset base” of the WIOR is at least USD333.8 billion.
Gateway to Africa: Acts as a bridge between Asia and Africa.
For India:
- Indo-Pacific Cooperation: Strengthen India’s engagement with countries such as France and others.
- Net Security Provider: Engagement with WIOR enhances its influence.
- Blue Economy: Central for Deep Ocean Mission.

Challenges in WIOR

Rising Chinese Influence: China is using policies like “debt-trap diplomacy” to increase its influence. E.g., China’s military base in Djibouti and Gwadar port in Pakistan
Emerging Maritime Threats: E.g., maritime piracy, illegal carrying of weapons, drug trafficking, etc.
Conflicts: E.g. Conflicts in Yemen (Houthis Militias)
Other: Non-traditional (E.g., Environmental threats driven by climate change), etc.

India’s Measures to Protect Its Interests in WIOR

SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region): Maritime cooperation doctrine for the Indian Ocean region.
Memberships in common multilateral forums: E.g. Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) etc.
Defence Cooperation and Capacity Building: E.g., Naval exercises Konkan (between Indian and the United Kingdom)
Strategic Partnerships with Island Nations: E.g., Mauritius developed runway and jetty with Indian assistance at Agalega Island.
Other: Information Fusion Centre–IOR, Operation Sankalp (played a pivotal role as the ‘First Responder’ and ‘Preferred Security Partner’ in IOR), Chabahar Port (Iran), etc.