New Delhi, March 7 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar remarked that the growth of India would prove advantageous for the Indian Ocean region, referring to it as "a lifting tide" and underscoring the region's strategic importance.

During a discussion with Seychelles Foreign Minister Barry Faure and Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath at the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, focused on 'Heart of the Seas: Future of the Indian Ocean', EAM asserted, "I wish for other nations in the Indian Ocean to recognize that India’s ascent serves as a lifting tide. As we prosper, the countries around us will also gain advantages. Those who collaborate with us will naturally see even greater benefits. This is a discernible trend."

While acknowledging the challenges India faces, he stated, "The trajectory of India’s growth is evident and, in many ways, unstoppable. The advancement of a nation is governed by its own actions, and India’s progress will be defined by our own capabilities, not by the errors of others."

EAM highlighted India’s initiatives to enhance connectivity, such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the International North-South Transport Corridor, which aim to broaden the country’s trade networks across Asia and beyond.

He noted, "The Indian Ocean is currently experiencing a phase of recovery and rebuilding, more so than many other global regions. While individual states are taking action, the entire region is involved. We are actively restoring trade routes and connectivity, especially towards the east, through Myanmar into Southeast Asia, and towards the west via IMEC into the Arabian Peninsula and further into Iran and Eurasia through the International North-South Transport Corridor."

Emphasizing India's supportive role during challenging times, EAM Jaishankar referenced the assistance provided to Sri Lanka amid its economic crisis, along with the swift disaster relief efforts following Cyclone Ditwah last November.

He stated, "There are times when planning is feasible, and there are periods of stress. For instance, Sri Lanka experienced a significant economic downturn, and it was India that provided the most substantial and rapid support. Following Cyclone Ditwah, we were on the ground within twenty-four hours."

He concluded with a call for building a sense of identity in the Indian Ocean region, stating, "If we aim to cultivate a sentiment or spirit around the Indian Ocean, it must be substantiated with resources, efforts, commitments, and tangible projects, so that people recognize the seriousness of our intentions."