India will assume the chairship of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) from November 2025, succeeding Sri Lanka. With a focus on maritime security, economic cooperation, and sustainable development, India aims to enhance the association’s financial resources, promote technological integration, and strengthen cultural ties among member states.
Overview of the Indian Ocean Rim Association
- Formation and Purpose: Established in 1997, IORA is an intergovernmental body promoting economic, political, and security cooperation among Indian Ocean-bordering countries.
- Members and Dialogue Partners: It has 23 member states and 12 dialogue partners, including major powers like the US, China, and Russia.
- Leadership: Sri Lanka currently chairs the association, with India serving as vice-chair. Leadership is rotated biennially.
- Founding Influence: The concept of IORA originated from Nelson Mandela’s 1995 speech in India, proposing regional collaboration.
India’s Strategic Role in IORA
- SAGAR Vision Alignment: India’s Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) initiative aligns with IORA’s goals, focusing on maritime security and economic partnerships.
- Diplomatic Leverage: India will use its robust diplomatic network to foster sustainable regional cooperation.
- Economic Enhancement: Plans include strengthening IORA’s budget through public-private partnerships and investments in sectors like maritime trade, tourism, and energy.
- Technological Integration: India aims to enhance IORA’s decision-making capabilities through digitization, data management, and policy analysis.
- Maritime Workforce Development: Collaborating with academic institutions, India plans to offer marine-focused educational programs to support the blue economy.
Significance of the Indian Ocean Region
Geopolitical Importance
The Indian Ocean is a strategic economic and security zone within the Indo-Pacific region.
Global Trade Hub
It facilitates 75% of global trade and half of the world’s daily oil consumption.
Economic Contribution
In 2023, the Indian Ocean generated USD 1 trillion in goods and services, with intra-IORA trade reaching USD 800 billion.
Population Center
The region is home to two-thirds of the world’s population, further underscoring its economic and political significance.
India’s Priorities as IORA Chair
- Regional Leadership: Through its chairship, India will reinforce its position as a maritime power and advocate for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
- Resource Mobilization: Innovative funding mechanisms will be explored, particularly leveraging shipping, oil, gas, and tourism industries.
- Digital Transformation: India will introduce digitized processes for improved record-keeping, transparency, and swift decision-making.
- Capacity Building: Specialized maritime courses on safety, fisheries management, and disaster resilience will be developed to address regional challenges.
- Sustainability Focus: Sustainable fisheries, marine biodiversity conservation, and renewable energy promotion will be prioritized under India’s leadership.
- Cultural Exchange: Initiatives like cultural exchange programs, heritage conservation, and tourism development will strengthen people-to-people ties.