'COMMITTED TO ENHANCING PRESENCE IN INDIAN OCEAN REGION'

On China's bid to aggressively hunt for overseas bases, India's Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar says developments in the region are being closely monitored

- Mayank Singh

CAUGHT in geopolitical upheavals, the Indian Navy believes maritime diplomacy is at the core of its strategic vision. Activities by extra-regional nations in the Indian Ocean should be conducted in a transparent and inclusive manner, says Admiral Radhakrishnan Hari Kumar, Chief of Naval Staff, in a chat with Mayank Singh. Excerpts:

The Indian Ocean Region (IOR) has a few important sea lanes of communications (SLOCs) in the world, including that of China. What is your view on an increasing foray of China in the area?

Many regional and extra-regional nations have legitimate economic and strategic interests in the region. While economic engagement is welcome, it is essential that such activities are conducted in a transparent and inclusive manner, respecting the sovereignty and interests of the littoral states. The Indian Navy is closely monitoring these developments to ensure they are consistent with international norms.

In addition, it is crucial that all stakeholders in the IOR work together to maintain peace, stability, and security in the region. The Indian Navy in collaboration with our partner nations is committed to upholding a rules-based order in the IOR. We seek to ensure that the Indian Ocean remains a zone of peace, where disputes are resolved through dialogue and where freedom of navigation and overflight is guaranteed for all. We encourage all nations to act responsibly and in line with international norms to preserve the delicate balance in the IOR.

India and the Indian Navy propagate the vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region). But there are various challenges faced by the IOR countries...