The Impressive TimesNew Delhi : External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar took part in key diplomatic meetings with his counterparts from several Indian Ocean nations during the 8th Indian Ocean Conference held in Muscat, Oman, on February 16-17, 2025. The conference, organized by the India Foundation in collaboration with Oman’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, served as a platform for fostering cooperation among countries in the region.
Dr. Jaishankar met with the foreign ministers and senior officials from Mauritius, Maldives, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Oman, Brunei, Iran, and Bangladesh. These meetings were aimed at reinforcing India’s partnerships in the Indian Ocean region, addressing regional security concerns, and advancing mutual economic and political interests.
In his first-ever meeting with Mauritian Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ritish Ramful, Dr. Jaishankar underscored India’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the “special bonds of friendship” between India and Mauritius. The discussion highlighted the long-standing ties between the two nations, with a focus on enhancing cooperation in areas such as economic development, security, and cultural exchange.
With Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel, Dr. Jaishankar explored multiple dimensions of India-Maldives relations. The dialogue covered areas including trade, investment, and regional security, with a strong emphasis on the strategic importance of India-Maldives cooperation for stability in the Indian Ocean region.
During his meeting with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, Dr. Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s commitment to Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and development. Both sides discussed expanding bilateral cooperation in key sectors such as infrastructure, trade, and energy. The discussions also touched on fostering stronger ties in defense and security matters, particularly in the context of regional challenges.
Dr. Jaishankar’s engagements also included discussions with counterparts from Oman, Brunei, and Iran, reflecting India’s growing diplomatic footprint across the Indian Ocean. In his meeting with Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Advisor Md. Touhid Hossain, Dr. Jaishankar expressed India’s continued support for Bangladesh’s progress and emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.
The Indian Ocean Conference, held annually, provides an important opportunity for nations in the region to come together, discuss common challenges, and build closer cooperation in various fields, including security, trade, and environmental protection. The event’s ongoing discussions will play a pivotal role in shaping regional policies and ensuring sustained peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region.
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