India and France strengthen ties to enhance maritime security and biodiversity conservation in the Indian Ocean region
India and France convened the 7th Maritime Cooperation Dialogue in New Delhi on January 14, 2025.
The dialogue, co-chaired by Pavan Kapoor, Deputy National Security Advisor of India, and Alice Rufo, Director General for International Relations and Strategy of France’s Ministry for the Armed Forces, reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering maritime security and advancing their shared strategic vision in the Indian Ocean Region.
Both nations reiterated their dedication to upholding international law, promoting multilateralism, and ensuring respect for sovereignty and freedom of navigation. Reflecting on their shared vision for a free and open Indian Ocean Region, as outlined in their 2018 Joint Strategic Vision, they agreed to collaborate on maintaining secure sea lanes.
France welcomed the Indian Navy’s participation in the Combined Maritime Forces and expressed support for India’s future leadership roles within relevant Combined Task Forces. A joint assessment of maritime threats, including piracy, terrorism, smuggling, cyber threats, and marine pollution, was prioritized to strengthen regional security.
India and France pledge to enhance maritime security, combat illicit activities, and preserve marine biodiversity in the Indian Ocean Region, strengthening their strategic partnership
The dialogue emphasized enhanced information sharing between the Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (Gurugram) and regional centers in Seychelles and Madagascar. India and France also discussed exploring opportunities for coordinated surveillance to address threats effectively.
In addition to security, the two nations committed to marine biodiversity conservation and the protection of oceanic resources. They agreed to continue regional cooperation on the blue economy and ocean governance, building on progress from past dialogues. This collaboration aligns with their shared goals under the United Nations Ocean Conference.
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