This initiative exemplifies deepening relations between India and Littoral and island nations of the Indian ocean region (IOR). 

• The Indian Ocean countries comprise of 36 littoral and 11 hinterland states. 

Importance of IOR’s littoral and Island nations for India

• Strategic Location: Their proximity to sea lines of communications like Malacca strait is crucial for global trade, preventing privacy & ensuring maritime security.
  • 80% of India’s external trade and 90% of energy trade happens through IOR.
• Vision of regional Leadership: IOR is emerging as new theatre for geo-political competition between global powers e.g. USA, France etc. 
  • Hence, it is crucial for pursuing India’s vision of a net security provider, while also containing the rising footprint of China.
• Blue Economy: Marine fisheries in IOR supplies about 15% of world fish catch (FAO, 2020). IOR is also important for sustainable deep sea mining. 
• Climate Security: Indian Ocean has warmed faster than any other ocean since 1950s (IPCC report 2021).
  • Rapid population growth & rising climate disasters requires collective action for preventing human vulnerability and regional insecurity.