IPOI is a non-treaty-based voluntary arrangement that promotes cooperation for a free and open Indo-Pacific and the rules-based regional order.
- Indo-Pacific is as an interconnected space between the Indian and the Pacific Ocean, joined together by its main trading channel, the Malacca strait.
- It is home to more than half of the world's population, and nearly 2/3rds of the global economy.
About Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI)
- Genesis: IPOI was launched by India at the East Asia Summit in 2019, held in Bangkok (Thailand).
- Background: It builds upon the “Security and Growth for All in the Region” (SAGAR) initiative announced by India in 2015.
- SAGAR encourages countries to cooperate and synergise efforts towards a safe, secure, and stable maritime domain.
- 7 pillars of IPO: It includes Maritime Security; Maritime Ecology, Capacity Building and Resource Sharing; Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, etc.
Key Significance of IPOI
- Countering China's assertiveness: E.g., In 2020, India and Vietnam agreed to enhance their bilateral cooperation in line with IPOI.
- Convergences with other global initiatives: E.g., AIIPOIP (Australia-India Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative Partnership), AOIP (ASEAN Outlook for the Indo-Pacific), IPEF, etc.
