Underlining that the Indo-Pacific has been witnessing “deeper tensions and sharper contestations”, External Affairs minister S Jaishankar, referring to China’s aggressive behaviour in the region, said Sunday that “stronger assertions of interests” is one issue while concerns about “unilateral changes to the status quo” is another. Jaishankar’s remarks came at the 8th Indian Ocean Conference in Muscat on ‘Voyage to New Horizons of Maritime Partnership’. Pointing out that Indian Ocean nations are facing resource constraints and economic headwinds, Jaishankar said a common issue among nations is rebuilding connectivity in the region, after decades of colonial–era disruption. Another widespread concern is the challenge faced by Indian Ocean states to monitor their EEZ and secure their fishing interests, he said, adding that “nor can they be impervious to illegal trafficking of various kinds and the specter of terrorism”. India, he said, was contributing to the endeavors of addressing these challenges by rapidly strengthening its capabilities and forging partnerships with Indian Ocean neighbours, near and far. “But also, by shouldering responsibilities, stepping up in times of trouble, and providing leadership where required,” he said. “At the two ends of the ocean, this churn is at its sharpest today. In the Middle East/West Asia, there is a serious conflict underway with the potential for further escalation and complication. At the same time, longstanding issues are being revisited, sometimes with a radically different approach. Its maritime consequence is visible in a serious disruption of global shipping, with considerable cost to our economies.” he said. “At the other end, the Indo-Pacific has been witnessing deeper tensions and sharper contestations. The scenario is intrinsically maritime in nature, involving respect for and observance of international law. There are other concerns. Stronger assertions of interests is one issue; concern about unilateral changes to status quo another. From India’s own experience, we can say that adhering to agreements and understandings is a central element to ensuring stability and predictability,” he said.
