Recently China has accepted India’s ‘Indo Pacific Ocean Initiative’ (IPOI) for the first time.
In the backdrop of the 30th anniversary of ASEAN-China dialogue relations, China has for the first time adopted the concept of ‘Indo-Pacific’. It is considered important by observers, as China has always referred to it as the Asia-Pacific. Also, China has been denying any involvement under it.
In addition, China has also recognized India’s Indo Pacific Ocean Initiative. Also called for cooperation between the Belt and Road Initiative and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific.
This initiative of India was launched in November 2019 at the East Asia Summit. It is an open and non-treaty based initiative between countries. It aims to work together for cooperative and collaborative solutions to common challenges in the region.
Different countries have different approaches to the Indo-Pacific, supporting each other with the broader geo-strategic idea of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. For example, Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) vision came into existence in 2016.
Pillars of India’s Indo Pacific Ocean Initiative
- maritime security,
- Marine Ecology and Marine Resources,
- Capacity building and information sharing,
- Maritime connectivity and disaster management.
The IPOI echoes India’s multilateral vision of engagement. It is not only ASEAN focused for regional integration, but also Indo-Pacific connectivity, sustainable infrastructure and economic development.
Source – The Hindu
