Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said they believe that a seamless transition into an Indo-Pacific is to their collective advantage, reports UNB.
He reiterated India’s commitment to the well-being and progress of all nations of the Indian Ocean.
"We have dedicated bodies like the Indian Ocean Rim Association or the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium, with their specific mandates. We expand on that belief through the Neighbourhood First policy, the SAGAR outlook and our approach to the extended neighbourhood," Jaishankar said while speaking at the inaugural session of the 6th Indian Ocean Conference in Dhaka on Friday evening.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the conference.
Jaishankar appreciated the personal support and encouragement extended by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, reflected in her presence amongst them.
President of Mauritius and the Vice-President of Maldives, Ministers, notable dignitaries, scholars and experts joined the event.
Referring to Bangladesh which released its Indo-Pacific Outlook on 24 April 2023, Jaishankar said, "By doing so, Bangladesh joined a number of countries ranging from ASEAN and East Asia to Europe and North America in articulating its thinking on this important subject."
He said Indo-Pacific is a reality and becoming more so with each passing day.
"I am truly glad that Bangladesh has joined the company of those who have done so," Jaishankar said.
He particularly note from the 4 Guiding Principles and the 15 Objectives of Bangladesh’s outlook, its respect for the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Seas (UNCLOS).
It is essential for the credibility of the global order that such foundational regimes are respected and scrupulously observed by all signatories, said the Indian Minister.
He said the views of Bangladesh are particularly noteworthy because of its standing as a progressive and successful developing economy that is making its fullest contribution to regional growth and prosperity.
Bd-pratidin English/Tanvir Raihan
