The seventh Indian Ocean Conference, held in Perth, Western Australia, served as a platform for discussions among Indian Ocean rim countries about pressing issues affecting the region. The conference theme, “Towards a Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean,” underscored the need to address emerging challenges effectively, says an article published on the diplomat website.
Summary
- The 7th Indian Ocean Conference in Perth, Western Australia, served as a platform for discussions among Indian Ocean rim countries about pressing issues affecting the region.
- While stability and sustainability were overarching themes, the conference’s discussions indirectly revolved around concerns about China’s activities in the Indian Ocean.
- China’s actions, including its disregard for the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in the South China Sea, raise concerns about similar behavior in the Indian Ocean.
- Freedom of navigation emerged as a critical issue, essential for the global economy’s smooth functioning.
- The United States’ historical role as a guarantor of freedom of navigation has contributed to global prosperity. However, concerns arise from the trend of disinterest, particularly within the Republican Party, in continuing this role.
Undeclared Focus On China
While stability and sustainability were overarching themes, the conference’s discussions indirectly revolved around concerns about China’s activities in the Indian Ocean. Though not explicitly mentioned by government representatives, the need for agreed-upon rules and norms was seen as a response to China’s actions.
Challenges Posed By China’s Actions
China’s actions, including its disregard for the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in the South China Sea, raise concerns about similar behavior in the Indian Ocean. The expansion of China’s military presence in the region and its attempts to revise established rules and norms are viewed as threats to stability.
Emphasis On Freedom Of Navigation
Freedom of navigation emerged as a critical issue, essential for the global economy’s smooth functioning. Smaller states, including landlocked ones like Nepal and Bhutan, emphasized their reliance on UNCLOS and the importance of mutually beneficial rules and norms.
Role Of The United States
The United States’ historical role as a guarantor of freedom of navigation has contributed to global prosperity. However, concerns arise from the trend of disinterest, particularly within the Republican Party, in continuing this role. This shift in US policy adds to the apprehensions about China’s actions in the Indo-Pacific region.
Conclusion
The Indian Ocean Conference highlighted the need for collective action to address challenges to stability and sustainability in the region, with a particular focus on China’s activities and the importance of preserving freedom of navigation. The role of the United States as a guarantor of maritime security also came under scrutiny amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe
Source: the diplomat
