INDIAN OCEAN NAVAL SYMPOSIUM (IONS)

NEWS: The Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) is a voluntary, cooperative naval forum of countries that lie along the Indian Ocean littoral (coastal states).

Key Objectives of IONS

• Increase Maritime Cooperation: Encourages joint thinking and coordination among regional navies
• Promote Mutual Understanding: Regular interaction builds confidence and transparency
• Focus on Non-Traditional Security Issues: Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), Search and rescue
• Information Sharing: Facilitates exchange

India and IONS

• India is a key driving force behind IONS
• Aligns with India’s maritime vision like:
  • SAGAR
  • MAHASAGAR
• Indian Navy uses platforms like IONS to:
  • Enhance regional leadership
  • Strengthen maritime diplomacy
  • Promote a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific

Strategic Significance of IOR

• 40+ countries
• ~40% of global population
• Carries:
  • ~2/3 of global oil shipments
  • ~1/3 of global cargo
  • ~50% container traffic