Dr. Jaishankar’s Diplomatic Engagements at the Indian Ocean Conference
The 8th Indian Ocean Conference, held on February 16-17, 2025, in Muscat, Oman, served as a pivotal platform for regional cooperation and dialogue. Organized by the India Foundation in collaboration with Oman’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the conference’s theme, “Voyages to New Horizons of Maritime Partnership,” underscored the collective aspiration for enhanced maritime collaboration among Indian Ocean nations.
On the sidelines of this significant event, India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, engaged in a series of bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Oman, Brunei, and Iran, aiming to strengthen diplomatic ties and explore avenues for mutual cooperation.
Strengthening India-Oman Relations
In a notable meeting with Oman’s Foreign Minister, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi, Dr. Jaishankar discussed a wide range of topics, including trade, investment, and energy security. The discussions highlighted the robust and multifaceted partnership between India and Oman, emphasizing the importance of economic collaboration and energy cooperation.
A significant highlight of their interaction was the joint unveiling of a commemorative logo celebrating the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. This emblem symbolizes the enduring friendship and shared history that India and Oman have cultivated over the decades.
Additionally, both ministers jointly released a book titled “Mandvi to Muscat: Indian Community and the Shared History of India and Oman.” This publication delves into the deep-rooted connections between the Indian community and Oman, shedding light on the cultural and historical ties that have bound the two countries.
Dr. Jaishankar expressed his appreciation for Oman’s successful hosting of the conference and acknowledged Foreign Minister Albusaidi’s personal efforts in ensuring its success. The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to further enhance their strategic partnership, building upon their historical ties and exploring new avenues for collaboration.
Engagement with Brunei
Dr. Jaishankar also held a warm and constructive dialogue with Brunei’s Foreign Minister, Dato Erywan Pehin Yusof. The discussions served as a follow-up to the outcomes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Brunei in September 2024, reflecting the ongoing commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
The ministers exchanged views on regional developments and explored opportunities to bolster the India-ASEAN partnership. Brunei’s support for this partnership was acknowledged, highlighting the shared vision for regional stability and prosperity.
Dialogue with Iran
In his meeting with Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, Dr. Jaishankar discussed bilateral ties and regional issues of mutual interest. The dialogue aimed at enhancing cooperation and understanding between India and Iran, focusing on areas that could benefit both nations.
Keynote Address at the Conference
During his keynote address at the Indian Ocean Conference, Dr. Jaishankar emphasized the critical importance of adhering to international agreements to ensure regional stability. He elaborated on the maritime implications of ongoing conflicts in West Asia and the Indo-Pacific region, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts to maintain peace and security.
Dr. Jaishankar remarked, “We meet at a time when there is considerable churn in world affairs. At such a juncture, an open and constructive exchange of views is of particular benefit.” He expressed confidence that the discussions held over the two days of the conference would provide valuable insights and contribute to a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the region.
He further noted that the Indian Ocean serves as a “global lifeline,” with its production, consumption, contribution, and connectivity being central to the functioning of the world today. This underscores the significance of the Indian Ocean region in global affairs and the necessity for cooperative frameworks to address shared challenges.
Conclusion
The 8th Indian Ocean Conference in Muscat provided a vital platform for India to engage in meaningful dialogues with key regional partners. Dr. Jaishankar’s bilateral meetings with the foreign ministers of Oman, Brunei, and Iran reflect India’s proactive approach to strengthening diplomatic ties, enhancing regional cooperation, and addressing shared challenges in the Indian Ocean region.
These engagements underscore India’s commitment to fostering collaborative relationships and contributing to the stability and prosperity of the region. As the global landscape continues to evolve, such dialogues are essential in navigating the complexities of international relations and promoting mutual interests.
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