Maritime Diplomacy
Over the years, ocean areas have emerged as the center of wide -ranging activities. Thus, small changes in diplomatic terminology from 'Asia Pacific' to 'Indo-Pacific' in the India-US Joint Statement indicate a significant shift in the geopolitical axis.
India has provided this broadness by making significant changes in its maritime diplomacy in recent years. The Indian Ocean remains the center of wide-ranging activities today. It has the following dimensions
India aims to ensure the security of the sea route to East and South-East Asia by keeping the 'choke points' of Malacca Strait free and independent. .India is increasing its engagement in the Arabian Sea under its 'Look Best Maritime Diplomacy'.
Strategic partnership with Oman and the United Arab Emirates, An important step in that direction. From 'Dukm' super port project in Oman comprehensive strategic and economic activities in the Arabian Ocean will be promoted.
The Arabian Ocean provides a sea route for oil and other product imports (the Indian plans to diversify its sources).Also, this region is a source of employment and remittance to India for about 70 lakh NRIs living in the Middle East.
The Indian Ocean Naval Symposium is an important geo-strategic dimension of the movement of Indian naval fleet in the Gulf countries.
On the one hand, China is preparing to encircle India in this area through its 'String of Pearls' plan construction of naval base in Djibouti and development of sea ports like Gwadar, Hambantota . At the same time, India is taking forward programs like 'Project Mausam' building relations with Indian Ocean coastal countries on the basis of natural and cultural heritage) under its 'Soft Power Diplomacy' in countries like Sri Lanka, Maldives, Seychelles, Mauritius, Bangladesh etc. Is.
Here India's Sagar Mala Project infrastructural development of major sea ports and connecting them with inland waterways etc. India aims to promote 'Blue Economy' Marine Economy based activities through optimum exploitation of marine resources in the Indian Ocean.
