Sachin Malik: Under India current Chairmanship, the 28th Meeting of the Committee of Senior Officials (CSO) of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) was Successfully held in New Delhi. The Primary objective of the meeting was to further Strengthen regional cooperation to ensure a Peaceful, Stable and Prosperous Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Held in a fully in-Person format for the first time in five Years, the two-day high-level meeting brought together senior Government representatives from IORA member Dtates. The meeting was organized under the central theme, “Innovation, Openness, Resilience and Adaptability.” India reaffirmed its commitment to Promoting Inclusive Growth, Enhancing maritime security and advancing the sustainable development of the Blue Economy across the Indian Ocean Region.
During the meeting, delegates conducted a Comprehensive review of Progress made on IORA Institutional matters and Priority Areas. A key focus was the development of the upcoming IORA Action Plan (2028–2032). Amid evolving Global Geopolitical Dynamics, the new action Plan is expected to Provide Strategic direction for Cooperation in trade, connectivity, maritime security and disaster risk management among member Countries.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal Shared Photographs of the meeting on social media Platform X, Stating that Participants reviewed Progress on IORA institutional Priorities and discussed the next IORA Action Plan (2028–2032) to Strengthen Cooperation for a Peaceful, Stable and Prosperous Indian Ocean Region.
In line with India Strategic Vision of “MAHASAGAR”, the meeting Placed special emphasis on developing a cooperative and coordinated regional framework. Discussions also covered organizational expansion, including the review of Canada application to become an IORA Dialogue Partner.
The Indian Ocean Rim Association comprises 23 member States bordering the Indian Ocean, along with 12 Dialogue Partners. The organization Provides India with a Significant Platform to Strengthen defence and economic ties with neighbouring countries While helping balance China Growing Influence in this Strategically important Maritime Region.
