India, US plotting a bigger play in Indian Ocean

India and the United States discussed expanding their collaboration in the Indian Ocean region during a recent phone conversation between Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and US Under Secretary of State Allison M Hooker. The focus of the discussion was on maritime security, strategic infrastructure, and connectivity, as reported by the External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on social media platform X.

The MEA spokesperson clarified that both countries explored avenues for practical cooperation and complementarity across the region, keeping in mind the priorities of partner nations. They delved into areas where New Delhi and Washington could work together, aligning with the interests of regional partners.

The Indian Ocean Strategic Venture (IOSV) is a bilateral initiative launched in February 2025 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump. The primary goal of this venture is to enhance practical cooperation across the Indian Ocean region across key domains such as maritime security, strategic infrastructure, connectivity, investment, and commerce. Both nations aim to strengthen coordination while respecting the priorities of partner states.

The IOSV aligns with the broader India-US effort to promote connectivity and security throughout the Indian Ocean. During their conversation, both sides emphasized the importance of collaboration regarding undersea cable networks. India has been actively involved in the maintenance, repair, and financing of cables through trusted vendors. Potential partnerships are being considered across the Western Indian Ocean, West Asia, and the Indo-Pacific, covering sectors like defence, technology, energy, and critical minerals.