A&nbsp;US&nbsp;warship&nbsp;sailed through the sensitive&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait&nbsp;on Saturday, part of what the&nbsp;US&nbsp;military calls routine activity but which&nbsp;China&nbsp;described as "provocative".

The&nbsp;US&nbsp;Navy's 7th Fleet said the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer&nbsp;USS&nbsp;Ralph Johnson was conducting a "routine" transit through international waters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-taiwan-to-join-democratic-countries-in-sanctions-on-russia-456545">Russia-Ukraine war: Taiwan to join 'democratic countries' in sanctions on Russia</a>

"The ship's transit through the&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait&nbsp;demonstrates the United States' commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," 7th Fleet spokesperson Nicholas Lingo said in a statement. "The United States military flies, sails, and operates anywhere international law allows."

The Eastern Theatre Command of&nbsp;China's People's Liberation Army monitored the passage, which a spokesperson in a statement called a "provocative act."

Taiwan's Defence Ministry said the ship sailed in a northerly direction through the&nbsp;Strait, that its forces had monitored its passage and observed nothing out of the ordinary.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-chinese-fighter-jets-enter-taiwans-air-defence-zone-456169">Two Chinese fighter jets enter Taiwan’s air defence zone</a>

Taiwan&nbsp;is currently in a heightened state of alert due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, nervous that&nbsp;China&nbsp;may try to take advantage of the situation to make a move on the island though the government has reported no unusual Chinese manoeuvres.

Last year,&nbsp;US&nbsp;naval ships transited the&nbsp;Strait&nbsp;roughly monthly. Saturday's&nbsp;sailing&nbsp;was the first since November.

China&nbsp;claims democratically ruled&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;as its own territory and has mounted repeated air force missions into&nbsp;Taiwan's air defence identification zone (ADIZ) over the past two years, provoking anger in&nbsp;Taipei.

Taiwan's Defence Ministry said that on Saturday eight Chinese aircraft, six fighters and two anti-submarine aircraft,&nbsp;flew into its ADIZ, to the northeast of the&nbsp;Taiwan-controlled Pratas Islands at the top end of the South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: China's lessons from the Ukraine crisis

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Beijing calls&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;the most sensitive and important issue in its relations with Washington.

Like most countries, the United States has no formal diplomatic ties with&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;but is its most important international backer and arms supplier.

A US warship sailed through the sensitive Taiwan Strait on Saturday, part of what the US military calls routine activity but which China described as "provocative".

A US warship sailed through the sensitive Taiwan Strait on Saturday, part of what the US military calls routine activity but which China described as "provocative". The US Navy's 7th Fleet said the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson was conducting a "routine" transit through international waters. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Taiwan to join 'democratic countries' in sanctions on Russia "The ship's transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the United States' commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," 7th Fleet spokesperson Nicholas Lingo said in a statement. "The United States military flies, sails, and operates anywhere international law allows." The Eastern Theatre Command of China's People's Liberation Army monitored the passage, which a spokesperson in a statement called a "provocative act." Taiwan's Defence Ministry said the ship sailed in a northerly direction through the Strait, that its forces had monitored its passage and observed nothing out of the ordinary. Also read | Two Chinese fighter jets enter Taiwan’s air defence zone Taiwan is currently in a heightened state of alert due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, nervous that China may try to take advantage of the situation to make a move on the island though the government has reported no unusual Chinese manoeuvres. Last year, US naval ships transited the Strait roughly monthly. Saturday's sailing was the first since November. China claims democratically ruled Taiwan as its own territory and has mounted repeated air force missions into Taiwan's air defence identification zone (ADIZ) over the past two years, provoking anger in Taipei. Taiwan's Defence Ministry said that on Saturday eight Chinese aircraft, six fighters and two anti-submarine aircraft, flew into its ADIZ, to the northeast of the Taiwan-controlled Pratas Islands at the top end of the South China Sea. Watch | Gravitas: China's lessons from the Ukraine crisis Beijing calls Taiwan the most sensitive and important issue in its relations with Washington. Like most countries, the United States has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan but is its most important international backer and arms supplier.

China says US warship sailing in Taiwan Strait 'provocative'

Foreign ministers from Indo-Pacific nations attended a Paris conference Tuesday aimed at bringing the region, an important partner for trade and exports, squarely into Europe's focus in a rapidly changing world with rising security challenges.

New Zealand, India, South Korea, Japan and a clutch of other Asian nations were represented at the forum. China was not invited.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian stressed that China was not being slighted, and EU Foreign Policy chief Josep Borrell noted the long-standing "dedicated dialogue"&nbsp;between the EU and China.

"The Indo-Pacific strategy ... Is not an anti-China strategy. This strategy is not against anyone,"&nbsp;Le Drian said at a closing news conference. "It is a strategy for partnership development between the Indo-Pacific and the European Union."

Le Drian listed "concrete projects"&nbsp;that he said were planned or underway, from tackling climate change to health, but also security concerns.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell called the region an "aorta"&nbsp;for Europe with 40 per cent of the EU's trade passing through the region's waters.

"That's why we need freedom of navigation ... A security architecture that we have to build together,"&nbsp;Borrell said.

He announced a just-launched coordinated maritime presence with the region's navies.

It is "not a military alliance, not against anyone. It's a way of enhancing our presence and coordinating our means among the member states in order to be more able to act,"&nbsp;he said, without further elaboration.

Le Drian acknowledged concern over an emerging alliance between Russia and China "which is clearly defying the multilateral order."

"And that was another reason for us to engage more in the Indo-Pacific,? the French minister said.

Foreign ministers from Indo-Pacific nations attended a Paris conference Tuesday aimed at bringing the region, an important partner for trade and exports, squarely into Europe's focus in a rapidly changing world with rising security challenges.

Foreign ministers from Indo-Pacific nations attended a Paris conference Tuesday aimed at bringing the region, an important partner for trade and exports, squarely into Europe's focus in a rapidly changing world with rising security challenges. New Zealand, India, South Korea, Japan and a clutch of other Asian nations were represented at the forum. China was not invited. French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian stressed that China was not being slighted, and EU Foreign Policy chief Josep Borrell noted the long-standing "dedicated dialogue" between the EU and China. "The Indo-Pacific strategy ... Is not an anti-China strategy. This strategy is not against anyone," Le Drian said at a closing news conference. "It is a strategy for partnership development between the Indo-Pacific and the European Union." Le Drian listed "concrete projects" that he said were planned or underway, from tackling climate change to health, but also security concerns. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell called the region an "aorta" for Europe with 40 per cent of the EU's trade passing through the region's waters. "That's why we need freedom of navigation ... A security architecture that we have to build together," Borrell said. He announced a just-launched coordinated maritime presence with the region's navies. It is "not a military alliance, not against anyone. It's a way of enhancing our presence and coordinating our means among the member states in order to be more able to act," he said, without further elaboration. Le Drian acknowledged concern over an emerging alliance between Russia and China "which is clearly defying the multilateral order." "And that was another reason for us to engage more in the Indo-Pacific,? the French minister said.

EU forum puts crucial Indo-Pacific region squarely on radar

In the fourth edition of the Quad meet on Friday, foreign ministers of India, the United States, Japan, and Australia sent out a stern message against those indulging in cross border terrorism and threatening to disrupt peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

They also condemned North Korea’s destabilising ballistic missile launches, which it said were in violation of the UN Security Council Resolutions (UNSCR).

The highlight of the joint statement was that though North Korea was named explicitly, the remarks bore thinly veiled references to China and Pakistan.

Without naming Pakistan, the statement issued after the meeting called upon all countries to ensure that territory under their control is not used to launch terror attacks and denounced terrorist attacks in India, including the 26/11 Mumbai and Pathankot attacks.

“We denounce the use of terrorist proxies for cross-border terrorism and urge countries to work together to eliminate terrorist safe havens; disrupt terrorist networks and the infrastructure and financial channels which sustain them, and halt the cross-border movement of terrorists,” the ministers said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/quad-supported-indian-covid-vaccines-to-roll-out-in-first-half-of-2022-452472">Quad-supported Indian Covid vaccines to roll out in first half of 2022</a>

The statement highlighted India’s concerns that it had been a victim of cross-border terrorism.

In India’s northern Pathankot province, seven security personnel were killed during a terror attack at the air force base in 2016.

In Mumbai, more than 166 people were killed when a group of armed terrorists launched an attack in India’s financial capital.

In both the incidents, terrorists from Pakistan-based outfits Lashkar-e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) carried out the dastardly attack.

Apart from that, all the members also agreed that Afghanistan must be stopped from becoming a terrorist safe haven.

In the meeting, the Quad members also reaffirmed their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific—"a region which is inclusive and resilient, and in which states strive to protect the interests of their people, free from coercion,” the statement said.

Watch | Quad ministers address Indo-Pacific 'coercion', China aggression, COVID

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The reference to coercion is seen as a veiled message to China that has been increasing its military muscle-flexing in the Indo-Pacific.

The Japanese foreign minister said that the next Quad Leaders' Summit will take place in Japan in the first half of 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the fourth edition of the Quad meet on Friday, foreign ministers of India, the United States, Japan, and Australia sent out a stern message against those indulging in cross border terrorism and threatening to disrupt peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

In the fourth edition of the Quad meet on Friday, foreign ministers of India, the United States, Japan, and Australia sent out a stern message against those indulging in cross border terrorism and threatening to disrupt peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. They also condemned North Korea’s destabilising ballistic missile launches, which it said were in violation of the UN Security Council Resolutions (UNSCR). The highlight of the joint statement was that though North Korea was named explicitly, the remarks bore thinly veiled references to China and Pakistan. Without naming Pakistan, the statement issued after the meeting called upon all countries to ensure that territory under their control is not used to launch terror attacks and denounced terrorist attacks in India, including the 26/11 Mumbai and Pathankot attacks. “We denounce the use of terrorist proxies for cross-border terrorism and urge countries to work together to eliminate terrorist safe havens; disrupt terrorist networks and the infrastructure and financial channels which sustain them, and halt the cross-border movement of terrorists,” the ministers said. Also read | Quad-supported Indian Covid vaccines to roll out in first half of 2022 The statement highlighted India’s concerns that it had been a victim of cross-border terrorism. In India’s northern Pathankot province, seven security personnel were killed during a terror attack at the air force base in 2016. In Mumbai, more than 166 people were killed when a group of armed terrorists launched an attack in India’s financial capital. In both the incidents, terrorists from Pakistan-based outfits Lashkar-e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) carried out the dastardly attack. Apart from that, all the members also agreed that Afghanistan must be stopped from becoming a terrorist safe haven. In the meeting, the Quad members also reaffirmed their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific—"a region which is inclusive and resilient, and in which states strive to protect the interests of their people, free from coercion,” the statement said. Watch | Quad ministers address Indo-Pacific 'coercion', China aggression, COVID The reference to coercion is seen as a veiled message to China that has been increasing its military muscle-flexing in the Indo-Pacific. The Japanese foreign minister said that the next Quad Leaders' Summit will take place in Japan in the first half of 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

In Melbourne, Quad leaders call out North Korea, make veiled references to China, Pakistan

Foreign ministers are convening a crucial meeting in Melbourne with a focus on countering china's expansionism in the Indo-Pacific region and mounting tensions between Russia and the West over the Ukraine conflict.

Quad counters China expansionism in Indo-Pacific

Germany’s Ambassador to India Walter J Lindner&nbsp;has said that his country will intensify cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

His comments come even as German frigate FGS Bayern (F217) made a port call to Mumbai as part of its seven-month deployment to the Indo-Pacific region.

He said, "It is the beginning of intensified cooperation…”

Germany, along with other European countries like France, UK, have upped the engagement in the region.

Asked if Germany will join any diplomatic group or exercises such as the Malabar exercises, the top German envoy said, “Not going in details. In general, we will be more active in the Indo-Pacific region. We will see what kind of organisation it means and includes—whether it’s a military organisation or a diplomatic organisation. It shows that our focus is shifting more to the region than it was before.”

The Malabar exercise is an annual naval exercise between India, US, Australia and Japan in the region.

In 2020, the German government announced its policy on the Indo‑Pacific with the aim to strengthen the country's role in the region in the long term.

Envoy Lindner, who was on the visit of the frigate, explained, that it’s a “symbolic act that we walk the talk, we are just not issuing nice papers in strategy, but we send a symbol”.

The visit of the German frigate to Mumbai marks the last stop of its deployment, after a decade-long presence in the Indo-Pacific.

The ship also helped enforce the UN-administered arms embargo against North Korea prior to its journey through the South China Sea.

The envoy’s visit coincided with the visit of the chief of the German Navy, Vice Admiral Kay-Achim Schönbach to Delhi.

Commander Tilo Kalski of the frigate, who was also present at the virtual presser, said, “This tour has been kind of an ice breaker, kind of the beginning of new era”.

Indo-Pacific has emerged as one of the key focuses of the world leaders, given that it houses more than 50 per cent of the world population, and a substantial trade passes through its waters.

Speaking on China, the envoy said that Beijing is a “partner in some respect for the global challenges" it is also an "economic competitor and a systemic rival which means we have a different system. We have a democratic system just like India has.”

On the Chinese aggressiveness in the region, he said. “We don’t turn a blind eye on (such) behaviour that threatens international law...We are in favour of respect for the rules-based international community.”

Germany’s Ambassador to India Walter J Lindner has said that his country will intensify cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. His comments come even as German frigate FGS Bayern (F217) made a port call to Mumbai as part of its seven-month deployment to the Indo-Pacific region.

Germany’s Ambassador to India Walter J Lindner has said that his country will intensify cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. His comments come even as German frigate FGS Bayern (F217) made a port call to Mumbai as part of its seven-month deployment to the Indo-Pacific region. He said, "It is the beginning of intensified cooperation…” Germany, along with other European countries like France, UK, have upped the engagement in the region. Asked if Germany will join any diplomatic group or exercises such as the Malabar exercises, the top German envoy said, “Not going in details. In general, we will be more active in the Indo-Pacific region. We will see what kind of organisation it means and includes—whether it’s a military organisation or a diplomatic organisation. It shows that our focus is shifting more to the region than it was before.” The Malabar exercise is an annual naval exercise between India, US, Australia and Japan in the region. In 2020, the German government announced its policy on the Indo‑Pacific with the aim to strengthen the country's role in the region in the long term. Envoy Lindner, who was on the visit of the frigate, explained, that it’s a “symbolic act that we walk the talk, we are just not issuing nice papers in strategy, but we send a symbol”. The visit of the German frigate to Mumbai marks the last stop of its deployment, after a decade-long presence in the Indo-Pacific. The ship also helped enforce the UN-administered arms embargo against North Korea prior to its journey through the South China Sea. The envoy’s visit coincided with the visit of the chief of the German Navy, Vice Admiral Kay-Achim Schönbach to Delhi. Commander Tilo Kalski of the frigate, who was also present at the virtual presser, said, “This tour has been kind of an ice breaker, kind of the beginning of new era”. Indo-Pacific has emerged as one of the key focuses of the world leaders, given that it houses more than 50 per cent of the world population, and a substantial trade passes through its waters. Speaking on China, the envoy said that Beijing is a “partner in some respect for the global challenges" it is also an "economic competitor and a systemic rival which means we have a different system. We have a democratic system just like India has.” On the Chinese aggressiveness in the region, he said. “We don’t turn a blind eye on (such) behaviour that threatens international law...We are in favour of respect for the rules-based international community.”

Germany to intensify cooperation in Indo-Pacific: Envoy Lindner

The White House Indo-Pacific Coordinator, Kurt Campbell, has said that the world is most likely to see a “strategic surprise” in the Pacific while referring to China’s growing influence in the region.

Speaking at Washington’s Center for Strategic and International Studies, Campbell pointed out that the United States has not done enough despite its “enormous moral, strategic, historical interests” in the Pacific.

“If you look and if you ask me, where are the places where we are most likely to see certain kinds of strategic surprise – basing or certain kinds of agreements or arrangements – it may well be in the Pacific,” he told an Australia-focused panel.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/significant-risk-of-war-as-chinas-power-declines-in-indo-pacific-report-434359">&nbsp;'Significant' risk of war as China's power declines in Indo-Pacific: Report</a>

&nbsp;“And we have a very short amount of time, working with partners like Australia, like New Zealand, like Japan, like France, who have an interest in the Pacific, to step up our game across the board,” Campbell added.

Campbell also said that the Quad initiative between US, Australia, India and Japan and the so-called the AUKUS pact, under which Washington and Britain have agreed to help Australia acquire nuclear submarines, are causing China “heartburn”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pacific-represents-a-return-of-history-indias-eam-jaishankar-396283">Indo-Pacific represents a return of history: India's EAM Jaishankar</a>

Some Indo-Pacific countries, many of whom have China as their largest trading partner, have been lamenting on the insufficient. economic engagement from the US following former president Donald Trump’s decision to pull out of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.

Biden told Asian leaders in October Washington would launch talks on creating an Indo-Pacific economic framework, but few details have emerged, and his administration has avoided moves towards rejoining trade deals critics say threaten US&nbsp;jobs, reports Reuters.

(With inputs from agencies)

The White House Indo-Pacific Coordinator, Kurt Campbell, has said that the world is most likely to see a “strategic surprise” in the Pacific while referring to China’s growing influence in the region.

The White House Indo-Pacific Coordinator, Kurt Campbell, has said that the world is most likely to see a “strategic surprise” in the Pacific while referring to China’s growing influence in the region. Speaking at Washington’s Center for Strategic and International Studies, Campbell pointed out that the United States has not done enough despite its “enormous moral, strategic, historical interests” in the Pacific. “If you look and if you ask me, where are the places where we are most likely to see certain kinds of strategic surprise – basing or certain kinds of agreements or arrangements – it may well be in the Pacific,” he told an Australia-focused panel. Also read | 'Significant' risk of war as China's power declines in Indo-Pacific: Report “And we have a very short amount of time, working with partners like Australia, like New Zealand, like Japan, like France, who have an interest in the Pacific, to step up our game across the board,” Campbell added. Campbell also said that the Quad initiative between US, Australia, India and Japan and the so-called the AUKUS pact, under which Washington and Britain have agreed to help Australia acquire nuclear submarines, are causing China “heartburn”. Also read | Indo-Pacific represents a return of history: India's EAM Jaishankar Some Indo-Pacific countries, many of whom have China as their largest trading partner, have been lamenting on the insufficient. economic engagement from the US following former president Donald Trump’s decision to pull out of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. Biden told Asian leaders in October Washington would launch talks on creating an Indo-Pacific economic framework, but few details have emerged, and his administration has avoided moves towards rejoining trade deals critics say threaten US jobs, reports Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

World likely to see ‘strategic surprise’ in Pacific, says US official, referring to China

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Tuesday that the US will strengthen its military and economic ties with Asian allies to counter China's growing aggressiveness in the Indo-Pacific.

Blinken stated that the Biden administration is committed to maintaining regional peace and prosperity, and that it will do so by strengthening US alliances, developing new ties, and ensuring that the US military maintains "its competitive advantage."

Blinken urged China to stop "aggressive measures" in the Indo-Pacific, as Washington looks to strengthen allies against Beijing.&nbsp;

"Threats are evolving, our security approach has to evolve with them. To do that, we will lean on our greatest strength: our alliances and partnerships," Blinken said in a speech in Indonesia, outlining the administration’s Indo-Pacific plans.&nbsp;

"We’ll adopt a strategy that more closely weaves together all our instruments of national power – diplomacy, military, intelligence – with those of our allies and partners," he said.

According to him, this will entail connecting US and Asian defence companies, consolidating supply chains, and working on technical innovation.&nbsp;

China claims practically the whole resource-rich South China Sea, with four Southeast Asian states and Taiwan making conflicting claims.

Beijing has been accused of deploying anti-ship and anti-surface-to-air missiles in the area, despite a 2016 international tribunal judgement declaring Beijing's historical claim to most of the waters to be unfounded.

Washington also wants to preserve "peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait," according to Blinken.

Tensions between the United States and China have risen over Taiwan, which China claims as its own and has pledged to recapture one day, by force if necessary.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Tuesday that the US will strengthen its military and economic ties with Asian allies to counter China's growing aggressiveness in the Indo-Pacific.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Tuesday that the US will strengthen its military and economic ties with Asian allies to counter China's growing aggressiveness in the Indo-Pacific. Blinken stated that the Biden administration is committed to maintaining regional peace and prosperity, and that it will do so by strengthening US alliances, developing new ties, and ensuring that the US military maintains "its competitive advantage." Blinken urged China to stop "aggressive measures" in the Indo-Pacific, as Washington looks to strengthen allies against Beijing. "Threats are evolving, our security approach has to evolve with them. To do that, we will lean on our greatest strength: our alliances and partnerships," Blinken said in a speech in Indonesia, outlining the administration’s Indo-Pacific plans. "We’ll adopt a strategy that more closely weaves together all our instruments of national power – diplomacy, military, intelligence – with those of our allies and partners," he said. According to him, this will entail connecting US and Asian defence companies, consolidating supply chains, and working on technical innovation. China claims practically the whole resource-rich South China Sea, with four Southeast Asian states and Taiwan making conflicting claims. Beijing has been accused of deploying anti-ship and anti-surface-to-air missiles in the area, despite a 2016 international tribunal judgement declaring Beijing's historical claim to most of the waters to be unfounded. Washington also wants to preserve "peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait," according to Blinken. Tensions between the United States and China have risen over Taiwan, which China claims as its own and has pledged to recapture one day, by force if necessary. (With inputs from agencies)

Stop 'aggressive actions' in the Indo-Pacific: US warns China

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the 18th ASEAN-India Summit where he touched upon a range of key issues, including COVID-19 pandemic, South China Sea issue, and stressed how ASEAN members play an important role in India’s vision for the Indo-Pacific.

Addressing the leaders via video conferencing, Modi said, “In 2022, our partnership would complete 30 years. India will also complete 75 years of its Independence. I am delighted that we will celebrate this important milestone as ASEAN-India Friendship Year.”

Modi stressed that the unity and centrality of ASEAN has always been a priority for India.

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Addressing the India-ASEAN Summit. <a href="https://t.co/OaQazNtC2A">https://t.co/OaQazNtC2A</a>
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“History is a witness that India and ASEAN have had lively relations for thousands of years. It is reflected in our shared values, traditions, languages, scriptures, architecture, culture, food. That is why the unity and centrality of ASEAN has always been a priority for India,” he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-participates-in-16th-east-asia-summit-reaffirms-indias-focus-on-a-free-open-inclusive-indo-pacific-424538">PM Modi participates in 16th East Asia Summit, reaffirms India's focus on a free, open, inclusive Indo-Pacific</a>

Commenting on the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, “Due to COVID19, all of us had to face a lot of challenges. This challenging time was also a test of the India-ASEAN friendship. Our mutual cooperation in COVID-19 era will keep strengthening our relations in the future and form a base for goodwill between our people.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vietnam-invites-india-for-asean-virtual-summit-in-november-336723">Vietnam invites India for ASEAN virtual summit in November</a>

Later in a press briefing, Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (East) Riva Ganguly Das said PM Modi has invited the ASEAN members to join the Indo Pacific Initiative (IPOI).

“The adoption of the joint statement on ASEAN outlook on Indo-Pacific and India's Indo-Pacific oceans initiative is one of the very major highlights of this summit. We have built upon the convergences that exist between the AOIP as the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and our own Indo-Pacific initiative IPOI,” she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-asean-increase-people-to-people-engagement-with-1st-ever-hackathon-362978">India, ASEAN increase people to people engagement with 1st ever Hackathon</a>

“We have the leaders adopted the joint statement and this joint statement charts the way forward for practical implementation of the convergence in a vision of Indo-Pacific. This is the objective to of course to ensure peace, prosperity and stability in the region.”

When she was asked whether issues like the South China Sea and Afghanistan were discussed, Das said, “The East Asia summit exchanged views on the regional and international seas. Highlighting the Afghanistan situation, PM (Modi) talked about the terrorism issue and called for a zero-tolerance to terrorism.”

She said a series of activities will be conducted to commemorate the 30 years of the ASEAN-India partnership.

“The leaders of India and ASEAN have declared the year 2022 as ASEAN-India Friendship Year as it marks 30 years of ASEAN-India partnership. A series of activities will be conducted around the year to commemorate this,” Das said.

(With inputs from agencies)

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the 18th ASEAN-India Summit where he touched upon a range of key issues, including COVID-19 pandemic, South China Sea issue, and stressed how ASEAN members play an important role in India’s vision for the Indo-Pacific.

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the 18th ASEAN-India Summit where he touched upon a range of key issues, including COVID-19 pandemic, South China Sea issue, and stressed how ASEAN members play an important role in India’s vision for the Indo-Pacific. Addressing the leaders via video conferencing, Modi said, “In 2022, our partnership would complete 30 years. India will also complete 75 years of its Independence. I am delighted that we will celebrate this important milestone as ASEAN-India Friendship Year.” Modi stressed that the unity and centrality of ASEAN has always been a priority for India. Addressing the India-ASEAN Summit. https://t.co/OaQazNtC2A — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 28, 2021 × “History is a witness that India and ASEAN have had lively relations for thousands of years. It is reflected in our shared values, traditions, languages, scriptures, architecture, culture, food. That is why the unity and centrality of ASEAN has always been a priority for India,” he said. Also read | PM Modi participates in 16th East Asia Summit, reaffirms India's focus on a free, open, inclusive Indo-Pacific Commenting on the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, “Due to COVID19, all of us had to face a lot of challenges. This challenging time was also a test of the India-ASEAN friendship. Our mutual cooperation in COVID-19 era will keep strengthening our relations in the future and form a base for goodwill between our people.” Also read | Vietnam invites India for ASEAN virtual summit in November Later in a press briefing, Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (East) Riva Ganguly Das said PM Modi has invited the ASEAN members to join the Indo Pacific Initiative (IPOI). “The adoption of the joint statement on ASEAN outlook on Indo-Pacific and India's Indo-Pacific oceans initiative is one of the very major highlights of this summit. We have built upon the convergences that exist between the AOIP as the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and our own Indo-Pacific initiative IPOI,” she said. Also read | India, ASEAN increase people to people engagement with 1st ever Hackathon “We have the leaders adopted the joint statement and this joint statement charts the way forward for practical implementation of the convergence in a vision of Indo-Pacific. This is the objective to of course to ensure peace, prosperity and stability in the region.” When she was asked whether issues like the South China Sea and Afghanistan were discussed, Das said, “The East Asia summit exchanged views on the regional and international seas. Highlighting the Afghanistan situation, PM (Modi) talked about the terrorism issue and called for a zero-tolerance to terrorism.” She said a series of activities will be conducted to commemorate the 30 years of the ASEAN-India partnership. “The leaders of India and ASEAN have declared the year 2022 as ASEAN-India Friendship Year as it marks 30 years of ASEAN-India partnership. A series of activities will be conducted around the year to commemorate this,” Das said. (With inputs from agencies)

South China Sea, Indo-Pacific find mention during Indian PM Modi’s meet with ASEAN leaders

United States deputy secretary of state Wendy Sherman, who is in India on a two-day visit, held talks with foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Wednesday. Both leaders discussed the indo-pacific and COVID-19 pandemic during the meet.

US deputy secretary of state Wendy Sherman on two-day visit to India, Afghan on agenda

New Zealand’s opposition leader Judith Collins has hit out at the US and UK over China, saying their failure to adopt free trade agreements was “foolish” and increased Chinese dominance in the Indo-Pacific.

Collins blames US & UK for growing Chinese influence

Slovenia's foreign minister Anže Logar has batted for strong ties with India while calling for European Union to increase engagement with countries in the Indo Pacific. Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Siddhant Sibbal, Logar said, "India is a very interesting and very welcome partner for cooperation...see many common positions that we can take together".

Exclusive: Slovenia foreign minister bats for stronger ties with India

Even as India&nbsp; and France strengthen ties, Paris has agreed to join New Delhi's&nbsp;Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI).&nbsp;&nbsp;IPOI was proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the East Asia Summit in November&nbsp;2019.

The development comes even as French Foreign minister&nbsp;Jean-Yves Le Drian is on an India visit. Earlier in the day, he met India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. He will also be going to&nbsp;Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) headquarters in&nbsp;Bengaluru.

Increasing trade connectivity, maritime transport and maritime security are among the seven key pillars of the initiative. Other five are maritime ecology, maritime resources, capacity building and resource sharing, disaster risk reduction and management, science, technology and academic cooperation.

India has been engaging with countries under IPOI. Many countries in the region have been invited for it.

Both India and France are increasing engagement, especially in defence and martime domain. French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle will take part in India-France Varuna naval exercise.

Charles de Gaulle is the&nbsp;first French&nbsp;nuclear-powered&nbsp;surface vessel. The exercises will start from April 26th and take place off the coast of Oman (Western Indian Ocean).

The last edition of Varuna Exercises took place along the Goa coast in May&nbsp;2019.&nbsp;That was the 17th edition of this exercise.&nbsp; Earlier this month, India for the first time joined France-initiated La Pérouse exercises. The exercises saw coming together of naval ships of France and all four Quad countries-- India, US, Australia and Japan.

Even as India and France strengthen ties, Paris has agreed to join New Delhi's Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI). IPOI was proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the East Asia Summit in November 2019.

Even as India and France strengthen ties, Paris has agreed to join New Delhi's Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI). IPOI was proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the East Asia Summit in November 2019. The development comes even as French Foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian is on an India visit. Earlier in the day, he met India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. He will also be going to Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) headquarters in Bengaluru. Increasing trade connectivity, maritime transport and maritime security are among the seven key pillars of the initiative. Other five are maritime ecology, maritime resources, capacity building and resource sharing, disaster risk reduction and management, science, technology and academic cooperation. India has been engaging with countries under IPOI. Many countries in the region have been invited for it. Both India and France are increasing engagement, especially in defence and martime domain. French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle will take part in India-France Varuna naval exercise. Charles de Gaulle is the first French nuclear-powered surface vessel. The exercises will start from April 26th and take place off the coast of Oman (Western Indian Ocean). The last edition of Varuna Exercises took place along the Goa coast in May 2019. That was the 17th edition of this exercise. Earlier this month, India for the first time joined France-initiated La Pérouse exercises. The exercises saw coming together of naval ships of France and all four Quad countries-- India, US, Australia and Japan.

France to join India's Indo-Pacific oceans initiative; aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle to exercise with Indian Navy

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is expected to visit India as part of efforts to bolster cooperation across the Indo-Pacific to counter China’s aggressive actions.

Japan PM Suga to visit India to bolster Indo-Pacific cooperation

The two ministers also showed a similar understanding of the Indo-Pacific, where both agreed that the centrality of the Association for South East Asian Nations was paramount.

EAM S Jaishankar discusses Myanmar coup with FM Sergei Lavrov

Why is India crucial to America's Indo-Pacific policy? What signal does U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd J Austin's visit to India send? WION's Palki Sharma has the answer.

Gravitas: India and the Indo-Pacific

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has a new vision. He wants to focus on Indo-Pacific and marginalise China from the 5G race. Johnson needs India's support for both. But for that- the UK first needs to change its approach towards India. WION's Palki Sharma brings you the details.

Gravitas: Britain standing up to the China threat

UK PM Boris Johnson has unveiled a blueprint for Britain's future. WION's Palki Sharma decodes the 4 areas of importance: 1: Countering Chinese aggression 2: Indo-pacific tilt in foreign policy 3: Nuclear stockpile upgrade 4: New law against protests

Gravitas: Boris Johnson's blueprint for Britain

British PM Boris Johnson will visit India on 26th April. This is Johnson's first international trip after Brexit. Why did he choose India? The UK wants to put its engagements with India & the Indo-Pacific first after Brexit. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Why Boris Johnson is travelling to India

US, Japan, India and Australia to hold quad meet, till date Australian PM Scott Morrison has confirmed his plans of attending the meet. The meet will happen amid China's maritime assertiveness in the region.

US, Japan, India, Australia to hold Quad meets

The Quad is aimed at ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific, a region that witnessed increasing Chinese military assertiveness in recent years.

Biden admin views Quad as having essential momentum

The US, Japan, Australia, and India will hold virtual Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad meet. United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken will be speaking to his counterparts as part of efforts to balance China’s growing military and economic power.

US to hold virtual Quad meet with Australia, India and Japan

The United States on Wednesday announced talks with Australia, Japan and India to further boost the "Quad" alliance despite warnings from China.&nbsp;

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with the foreign ministers of the three countries with coronavirus pandemic and climate change being on the agenda, the State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters on Wednesday.

Watch |

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secretary-of-state-antony-blinken-to-hold-quad-meet-with-members-364460/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"These discussions with the Quad foreign ministers is critical to advancing our shared goals of a free and open Indo-Pacific and rising to the defining challenges of our times," Price said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-potential-bulwark-against-chinas-increasing-activity-in-the-indo-pacific-364376">Quad: Potential bulwark against China's increasing activity in the Indo-Pacific</a>

The Quadrilateral alliance, commonly known as "Quad", was launched in 2007 to balance China's rise in the region.&nbsp;

Despite the initial caution, Quad in recent years, particularly in the last year has grown, something that has angered Beijing.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, China's state-run Global Times warned US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden </a>that renewing Quad would be a "serious strategic blunder" and may spark "a severe strategic confrontation" with Beijing.&nbsp;

The newspaper in an expert's commentary also tried to put a lot of pressure on India, saying India has the power to end the alliance and asked the country to not "completely tie itself to the US' anti-China chariot."

Recently Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>and Biden talked in a phone call in which the two leaders agreed to strengthen the security in the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

The United States on Wednesday announced talks with Australia, Japan and India to further boost the "Quad" alliance despite warnings from China. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with the foreign ministers of the three countries with coronavirus pandemic and climate change being on the agenda, the State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters on Wednesday.

The United States on Wednesday announced talks with Australia, Japan and India to further boost the "Quad" alliance despite warnings from China. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with the foreign ministers of the three countries with coronavirus pandemic and climate change being on the agenda, the State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters on Wednesday. Watch | "These discussions with the Quad foreign ministers is critical to advancing our shared goals of a free and open Indo-Pacific and rising to the defining challenges of our times," Price said. Also read | Quad: Potential bulwark against China's increasing activity in the Indo-Pacific The Quadrilateral alliance, commonly known as "Quad", was launched in 2007 to balance China's rise in the region. Despite the initial caution, Quad in recent years, particularly in the last year has grown, something that has angered Beijing. Earlier this month, China's state-run Global Times warned US President Joe Biden that renewing Quad would be a "serious strategic blunder" and may spark "a severe strategic confrontation" with Beijing. The newspaper in an expert's commentary also tried to put a lot of pressure on India, saying India has the power to end the alliance and asked the country to not "completely tie itself to the US' anti-China chariot." Recently Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Biden talked in a phone call in which the two leaders agreed to strengthen the security in the Indo-Pacific region.

US to hold talks with 'Quad' partners despite China pressure

The Quad grouping makes sense, but to make a difference it needs to speak in one voice. The alliance has informally existed for 13 long years but seems to have restricted itself to mere posturing. WION's Palki Sharma says it's time the Quad become proactive and not reactive.

Gravitas: Time to turn Quad into a formal alliance?

The United States on Tuesday described the Quad, or the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue as a "key example" of Washington working with its "closest partners" for the "good" of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

"What I would say generally is that the Quad is a key example of the United States and our closest partners, including, in this case, India, pulling together for the good of a free and open Indo-Pacific region," State Department Spokesperson Ned Price was quoted as saying to reporters at his daily news conference.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-eam-s-jaishankar-speaks-to-us-state-secretary-blinken-362555/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He also said that US views Quad, the grouping of Australia, India, Japan and the US, as having "essential momentum" and "important potential" to deepen engagement on areas of "traditional focus" and to "confront defining issues of our time".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-welcomes-indias-rise-as-leading-global-power-as-jaishankar-blinken-talk-over-phone-362581">US welcomes India's rise as 'leading global power' as Jaishankar-Blinken talk over phone</a>

"We view the Quad as having essential momentum and important potential, and that's why we're going to build on it by deepening cooperation on areas of traditional focus, and that includes maritime security, while also working closely with Quad partners to confront some of the defining issues of our time," the spokesperson said.

These issues include the coronavirus pandemic, climate and "democratic resilience as well," Price said.&nbsp;

On the possibility of reports of a Quad summit proposed by the Biden administration, the spokesperson said, "we don't have anything to announce at this time".&nbsp;

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The United States on Tuesday described the Quad, or the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue as a "key example" of Washington working with its "closest partners" for the "good" of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

The United States on Tuesday described the Quad, or the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue as a "key example" of Washington working with its "closest partners" for the "good" of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. "What I would say generally is that the Quad is a key example of the United States and our closest partners, including, in this case, India, pulling together for the good of a free and open Indo-Pacific region," State Department Spokesperson Ned Price was quoted as saying to reporters at his daily news conference. Watch | He also said that US views Quad, the grouping of Australia, India, Japan and the US, as having "essential momentum" and "important potential" to deepen engagement on areas of "traditional focus" and to "confront defining issues of our time". Also read | US welcomes India's rise as 'leading global power' as Jaishankar-Blinken talk over phone "We view the Quad as having essential momentum and important potential, and that's why we're going to build on it by deepening cooperation on areas of traditional focus, and that includes maritime security, while also working closely with Quad partners to confront some of the defining issues of our time," the spokesperson said. These issues include the coronavirus pandemic, climate and "democratic resilience as well," Price said. On the possibility of reports of a Quad summit proposed by the Biden administration, the spokesperson said, "we don't have anything to announce at this time".

US says Quad 'key example' of Washington working with allies for 'good' of Indo-Pacific

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US State Secretary Antony Blinken held a telephonic conversation, focusing on developments in the Indo-Pacific as well as cooperation under the framework of Quad.

Indian EAM S Jaishankar speaks to US State Secretary Blinken

Speaking yet again on the Indo Pacific vision, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, on Monday, in response to a question recalled his conversation with his "good friend" External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. "Our Indian colleagues fully understand that some countries would like to use the Indo-Pacific concept in a manner which is not inclusive and is confrontational," he said.

Pointing out Russian concerns on Indo-Pacific vision especially on it "undermining the central role of ASEAN in the Asia-Pacific region", he explained that, "I know that India is not going to move this Indo-Pacific cooperation in a way which would be not positive and constructive." Indo Pacific vision is backed by India and Washington, along with other countries such as Japan and Australia. The Chinese are suspicious of it, believing it is aimed at encircling it.&nbsp;

Highlighting the absence of no common Indo Pacific vision, the Russian foreign minister said, "We don’t believe that it is just a terminological change" because "if you take it literally, from the geographical point of view, then 'Indo'&nbsp;means all littoral states of the Indian Ocean, but East Africa, we are told, is not included in the Indo-Pacific strategy. The Persian Gulf, which is a part of the Indian Ocean, is not included in the Indo-Pacific strategy" but "what is included, as the American sponsors of this concept say repeatedly, is the 'Quad'&nbsp;— India, Australia, Japan and USA”.&nbsp;

Interestingly, he pointed out to his previous statement on Indo pacific, clarifying, "Some of my previous statements on this issue have been widely discussed in India, by media which are not very friendly towards the Indian Government, but we don’t want any misunderstanding with our friends — the Indian people."

He had in December said, that "India is currently an object of the Western countries’ persistent, aggressive and devious policy" on the "anti-China games by promoting Indo Pacific strategies", something that was seen as harsh criticism.

While he did reiterate Russian views on the Indo Pacific, he reaffirmed the long-standing Moscow-New Delhi ties. Calling India, "very close, very strategic, very special, and very privileged partner", Lavrov said, "take the spheres of economy, innovation, military-technical and High-Tech cooperation. India is one of our closest partners on all these issues."

India and Russia have a special and privileged strategic partnership. Russia and India have an annual summit-level mechanism that alternates between the two countries. The only other country with which India shares this mechanism is Japan.

He made remarks on the current India China standoff as well, saying, "we are doing the utmost to make sure that India and China, our two great friends and brothers, live in peace with each other."

All the three countries are part of the BRICS, SCO and RIC groupings. While Russia was the host of RIC or Russia, India and China grouping in 2020, this year India will be hosting meetings of the grouping. He also assured that "in no way our closest cooperation and partnership with India is going to be affected" vis a vis Moscow's ties with China.

Speaking yet again on the Indo Pacific vision, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, on Monday, in response to a question recalled his conversation with his "good friend" External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar.

Speaking yet again on the Indo Pacific vision, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, on Monday, in response to a question recalled his conversation with his "good friend" External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. "Our Indian colleagues fully understand that some countries would like to use the Indo-Pacific concept in a manner which is not inclusive and is confrontational," he said. Pointing out Russian concerns on Indo-Pacific vision especially on it "undermining the central role of ASEAN in the Asia-Pacific region", he explained that, "I know that India is not going to move this Indo-Pacific cooperation in a way which would be not positive and constructive." Indo Pacific vision is backed by India and Washington, along with other countries such as Japan and Australia. The Chinese are suspicious of it, believing it is aimed at encircling it. Highlighting the absence of no common Indo Pacific vision, the Russian foreign minister said, "We don’t believe that it is just a terminological change" because "if you take it literally, from the geographical point of view, then 'Indo' means all littoral states of the Indian Ocean, but East Africa, we are told, is not included in the Indo-Pacific strategy. The Persian Gulf, which is a part of the Indian Ocean, is not included in the Indo-Pacific strategy" but "what is included, as the American sponsors of this concept say repeatedly, is the 'Quad' — India, Australia, Japan and USA”. Interestingly, he pointed out to his previous statement on Indo pacific, clarifying, "Some of my previous statements on this issue have been widely discussed in India, by media which are not very friendly towards the Indian Government, but we don’t want any misunderstanding with our friends — the Indian people." He had in December said, that "India is currently an object of the Western countries’ persistent, aggressive and devious policy" on the "anti-China games by promoting Indo Pacific strategies", something that was seen as harsh criticism. While he did reiterate Russian views on the Indo Pacific, he reaffirmed the long-standing Moscow-New Delhi ties. Calling India, "very close, very strategic, very special, and very privileged partner", Lavrov said, "take the spheres of economy, innovation, military-technical and High-Tech cooperation. India is one of our closest partners on all these issues." India and Russia have a special and privileged strategic partnership. Russia and India have an annual summit-level mechanism that alternates between the two countries. The only other country with which India shares this mechanism is Japan. He made remarks on the current India China standoff as well, saying, "we are doing the utmost to make sure that India and China, our two great friends and brothers, live in peace with each other." All the three countries are part of the BRICS, SCO and RIC groupings. While Russia was the host of RIC or Russia, India and China grouping in 2020, this year India will be hosting meetings of the grouping. He also assured that "in no way our closest cooperation and partnership with India is going to be affected" vis a vis Moscow's ties with China.

Russian FM calls India 'very close partner'; says discussed Indo-Pacific with 'good friend' Jaishankar

According to the report: The Indo-Pacific strategy pledges to reinforce Washington’s economic ties with Southeast Asia, including by pursuing trade agreements that contain trade and investment standards set by the United States and that reduce the region’s economic reliance on China.

U.S. declassified Indo-Pacific report envisions India's growing role in the region | WION report

India sees IORA, the Indian Ocean Rim Association playing an important role in the Indo Pacific, with India's Minister of State (MOS) in the Ministry of External Affairs V Muraleedharan highlighting its "importance as a platform for regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region and the wider Indo-Pacific".

The minister's comments come even as India, along with countries like Australia, Japan, the US, UK, Germany are focusing on the concept. ASEAN came up with its outlook on Indo Pacific last year.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-vietnam-virtual-summit-on-monday-350783">India, Vietnam virtual summit on Monday</a>

The council of ministers of IORA countries had met on 17th December virtually, with Muraleedharan pointing out the contributions made "by India, as a Coordinating Country, in two priority areas of IORA namely, Disaster Risk Management and Academic, Science &amp; Technology", MEA statement said.

India will be setting up of Mahatma Gandhi library at the IORA Secretariat in Mauritius. It has already deployed an IT Expert at the Secretariat.

The MEA in the statement said, "India views IORA as a unique platform for promotion of peace stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific through greater inter-regional partnership."

The increasingly influential Indian Ocean grouping also saw France becoming its 23rd member on the basis of the Reunion Islands. Réunion is an Indian ocean Island in the east of Africa and is a French overseas territory.

The French presence comes in the backdrop of its engagement with India and Australia in a trilateral format and it appointing an envoy for the Indo Pacific, Christophe Penot, which is a first anywhere.

UAE is the chair of IORA for this year and under its leadership adopted the Emirates Communique and the IORA’s Solidarity and Cooperation Statement in response to Covid-19.

India is one of the founding members of the grouping formed in 1997. Only 2 countries that have the Indian Ocean as its shores and are not part of the grouping are-- Pakistan and Myanmar.

India sees IORA, the Indian Ocean Rim Association playing an important role in the Indo Pacific, with India's Minister of State (MOS) in the Ministry of External Affairs V Muraleedharan highlighting its "importance as a platform for regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region and the wider Indo-Pacific".

India sees IORA, the Indian Ocean Rim Association playing an important role in the Indo Pacific, with India's Minister of State (MOS) in the Ministry of External Affairs V Muraleedharan highlighting its "importance as a platform for regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region and the wider Indo-Pacific". The minister's comments come even as India, along with countries like Australia, Japan, the US, UK, Germany are focusing on the concept. ASEAN came up with its outlook on Indo Pacific last year. Also read | India, Vietnam virtual summit on Monday The council of ministers of IORA countries had met on 17th December virtually, with Muraleedharan pointing out the contributions made "by India, as a Coordinating Country, in two priority areas of IORA namely, Disaster Risk Management and Academic, Science & Technology", MEA statement said. India will be setting up of Mahatma Gandhi library at the IORA Secretariat in Mauritius. It has already deployed an IT Expert at the Secretariat. The MEA in the statement said, "India views IORA as a unique platform for promotion of peace stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific through greater inter-regional partnership." The increasingly influential Indian Ocean grouping also saw France becoming its 23rd member on the basis of the Reunion Islands. Réunion is an Indian ocean Island in the east of Africa and is a French overseas territory. The French presence comes in the backdrop of its engagement with India and Australia in a trilateral format and it appointing an envoy for the Indo Pacific, Christophe Penot, which is a first anywhere. UAE is the chair of IORA for this year and under its leadership adopted the Emirates Communique and the IORA’s Solidarity and Cooperation Statement in response to Covid-19. India is one of the founding members of the grouping formed in 1997. Only 2 countries that have the Indian Ocean as its shores and are not part of the grouping are-- Pakistan and Myanmar.

India sees Indian Ocean Rim Association playing a role in Indo Pacific

Batting yet again for the Indo Pacific concept, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "Indo-Pacific is actually a bread-and-butter expression" of "our political, economic, connectivity, travel, and societal interests".

Speaking at a virtual event, EAM Jaishankar said, "Indo-Pacific is not tomorrow’s forecast but yesterday’s reality....This change actually reflects a regional manifestation of larger global trends."

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-foreign-secretary-dominic-raab-holds-talks-with-indian-mea-s-jaishankar-349888/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

His comments come even as globally the concept is being adopted and welcomed.&nbsp;

India, the US, Japan, and Australia have been the main supporter of it and just last year ASEAN came out with its outlook on it. Many European countries like France, Germany, and The Netherlands have enunciated their official policies, and just earlier this week, British foreign secretary Dominic Raab briefed the Indian side about London's "Indo Pacific tilt"

Defining the region encompassing the concept, he said it is a "maritime space that connects Africa, Asia, Eurasia’s Pacific Coast, Oceania, and the Pacific Coast of the Americas." About 50% of global trade traverses the region and is home to 64% of the world population and 62% of global GDP.

India has been increasing its engagement with countries in the region under initiatives such as Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI).

EAM said, "The IPOI is an inclusive and open initiative, seeking to better manage, conserve, sustain and secure the maritime domain. It does not envisage creating a new institutional framework and will rely on ASEAN-led EAS framework, though not necessarily limited to it"

Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI) has 7 pillars and was proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the East Asia Summit in November 2019. Under the initiative, India and Australia will together host a conference on combating Marine Pollution &amp; Marine Plastic Debris which will bring together many countries of the region next year.

The EAM, interestingly raised the issue of Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing saying, "IUU fishing in particular has emerged as an important issue and there is a need to address this through a regional framework of cooperation. India has undertaken to organize an EAS Conference in that regard."

When it comes to IUU fishing, it is the Chinese vessels that have been indulging in such activity, draining oceanic regions near Latin America to North Korea out of resources.

Batting yet again for the Indo Pacific concept, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "Indo-Pacific is actually a bread-and-butter expression" of "our political, economic, connectivity, travel, and societal interests".

Batting yet again for the Indo Pacific concept, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "Indo-Pacific is actually a bread-and-butter expression" of "our political, economic, connectivity, travel, and societal interests". Speaking at a virtual event, EAM Jaishankar said, "Indo-Pacific is not tomorrow’s forecast but yesterday’s reality....This change actually reflects a regional manifestation of larger global trends." Watch | His comments come even as globally the concept is being adopted and welcomed. India, the US, Japan, and Australia have been the main supporter of it and just last year ASEAN came out with its outlook on it. Many European countries like France, Germany, and The Netherlands have enunciated their official policies, and just earlier this week, British foreign secretary Dominic Raab briefed the Indian side about London's "Indo Pacific tilt" Defining the region encompassing the concept, he said it is a "maritime space that connects Africa, Asia, Eurasia’s Pacific Coast, Oceania, and the Pacific Coast of the Americas." About 50% of global trade traverses the region and is home to 64% of the world population and 62% of global GDP. India has been increasing its engagement with countries in the region under initiatives such as Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI). EAM said, "The IPOI is an inclusive and open initiative, seeking to better manage, conserve, sustain and secure the maritime domain. It does not envisage creating a new institutional framework and will rely on ASEAN-led EAS framework, though not necessarily limited to it" Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI) has 7 pillars and was proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the East Asia Summit in November 2019. Under the initiative, India and Australia will together host a conference on combating Marine Pollution & Marine Plastic Debris which will bring together many countries of the region next year. The EAM, interestingly raised the issue of Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing saying, "IUU fishing in particular has emerged as an important issue and there is a need to address this through a regional framework of cooperation. India has undertaken to organize an EAS Conference in that regard." When it comes to IUU fishing, it is the Chinese vessels that have been indulging in such activity, draining oceanic regions near Latin America to North Korea out of resources.

Indo-Pacific is a 'bread-and-butter expression' says EAM

India's external affairs Minister S Jaishankar batting for the Indo-Pacific concept has said that it represents "a natural evolution... the evolution of India", a concept backed by Washington, several European countries, and ASEAN coming up with an outlook on it.

"Indo Pacific is an emphatic statement that doesn't artificially separate Indian ocean, and India from the pacific ocean and those countries. The world is much more seamless," Jaishankar&nbsp;said at the virtual event.

&nbsp;"Only a person in denial of globalization will actually contest Indo pacific and certainly an Indian who will understand our interest beyond the Indian ocean will see the logic of it," Jaishankar said.

In June 2018, the Indian Prime Minister had first elaborated New Delhi's point of view on the concept saying, it is not a strategy or directed at any country but stands for a free, open and inclusive region.&nbsp;

The comments by EAM comes even as Moscow has expressed its reservation on it. Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov last week called Indo-Pacific strategy which is being promoted by the western countries as being "Anti China."

Beijing has always been suspicious of the concept, which sees Asia-Pacific being replaced by Indo Pacific and it might lose its dominance to India in the region.

Meanwhile, EAM yet again spoke on Chinese aggressive action at Line of actual control calling events of this year "disturbing" and raising "basic concerns" about how the "other party has not abided by agreements" on many things including amassing troops.&nbsp;

"What has happened is not actually in the interest of China.... it has significantly impacted public sentiments."

2020 has been the worst year for India-China ties due to not only build up Chinese forces at the LAC but also due to the aggressive action in Galwan valley due to which 20 Indian soldiers died. Despite multiple rounds of talks at military and diplomatic levels, the build by the Chinese forces continues.

India's external affairs Minister S Jaishankar batting for the Indo-Pacific concept has said that it represents "a natural evolution... the evolution of India", a concept backed by Washington, several European countries, and ASEAN coming up with an outlook on it.

India's external affairs Minister S Jaishankar batting for the Indo-Pacific concept has said that it represents "a natural evolution... the evolution of India", a concept backed by Washington, several European countries, and ASEAN coming up with an outlook on it. "Indo Pacific is an emphatic statement that doesn't artificially separate Indian ocean, and India from the pacific ocean and those countries. The world is much more seamless," Jaishankar said at the virtual event. "Only a person in denial of globalization will actually contest Indo pacific and certainly an Indian who will understand our interest beyond the Indian ocean will see the logic of it," Jaishankar said. In June 2018, the Indian Prime Minister had first elaborated New Delhi's point of view on the concept saying, it is not a strategy or directed at any country but stands for a free, open and inclusive region. The comments by EAM comes even as Moscow has expressed its reservation on it. Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov last week called Indo-Pacific strategy which is being promoted by the western countries as being "Anti China." Beijing has always been suspicious of the concept, which sees Asia-Pacific being replaced by Indo Pacific and it might lose its dominance to India in the region. Meanwhile, EAM yet again spoke on Chinese aggressive action at Line of actual control calling events of this year "disturbing" and raising "basic concerns" about how the "other party has not abided by agreements" on many things including amassing troops. "What has happened is not actually in the interest of China.... it has significantly impacted public sentiments." 2020 has been the worst year for India-China ties due to not only build up Chinese forces at the LAC but also due to the aggressive action in Galwan valley due to which 20 Indian soldiers died. Despite multiple rounds of talks at military and diplomatic levels, the build by the Chinese forces continues.

Indo-Pacific represents evolution of India: S Jaishankar

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