Amid the concluding sessions of Raisina Dialogue 2026 in India’s capital, Foreign Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar painted a vivid picture of India’s irreplaceable role in the Indian Ocean. His speech underscored a key strength: the unparalleled trust nations place in India to host inclusive platforms.
‘Our centrality in the Indian Ocean brings special responsibilities because we can genuinely unite countries on one platform,’ Jaishankar explained. This stems from robust relationships where partners feel secure sharing information and collaborating.
A prime example is the Gurugram Fusion Centre, teeming with international delegates crafting holistic threat assessments. India spearheads multiple initiatives—IOR forums, security conclaves in Colombo, BIMSTEC collaborations—while weaving in Pacific dynamics for a holistic framework. Bilateral engagements add depth, particularly with Seychelles, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka, featuring interoperable fleets, joint trainings, and exercises.
Australia’s involvement in expansive drills highlights the scale of India’s outreach. From piracy patrols to disrupting drug cartels and illegal fishing, India’s navy and coast guard demonstrate versatility. Critical interventions in HADR and oil spills, like rapid responses in Sri Lanka and Mauritius using Indian vessels, showcase tangible impact.
Jaishankar’s assertion of India as a net security provider resonates deeply, reflecting a proactive diplomacy that builds resilience across the region. As the world navigates complex waters, India’s convening power emerges as a stabilizing force.