Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue 2025 Concludes on High Note in Delhi

The latest edition of the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue 2025 came to a successful end in New Delhi after three days of intense discussions. Held from October 28 to 30, this key event brought together top thinkers, military leaders, government officials, academics, and interested citizens from India and many other countries. It served as the Indian Navy’s premier yearly forum for strategic conversations on regional matters.

Core Theme Drives Engaging Sessions

This year’s gathering revolved around the idea of advancing comprehensive maritime safety and development through building local strengths and improving skills across the region. The seventh version of the dialogue drew people from more than thirty nations in the Indo-Pacific area and even further afield, creating a vibrant mix of views and experiences.

Participants explored practical ways to strengthen ties and address common challenges in the vast oceanic spaces that connect Asia, Africa, and beyond. The event highlighted how shared efforts can lead to better protection of sea routes and sustainable use of ocean resources.

Final Day Kicks Off with Blue Economy Insights

The last day started with a deep dive into how the blue economy, especially underwater structures, plays a role in international relations. Speakers from Israel, Vietnam, and the Philippines shared their unique challenges in safeguarding vital subsea assets.

The Israeli perspective focused on ensuring smooth trade and links via undersea paths in the Eastern Mediterranean. In contrast, experts from Vietnam and the Philippines pointed out issues with ambiguous actions in the South China Sea that threaten stability. India’s position as a helpful ally came into sharp focus, particularly through initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor in Western Asia and closer ties with ASEAN nations in Southeast Asia.

To wrap up this part, the National Maritime Foundation launched a new report called Maritime Perspectives: The Blue Economy and Resilience. This document offers fresh thoughts on building toughness in ocean-based activities.

Special Talk Emphasizes India’s Maritime Revival

Sanjeev Sanyal, who advises the Prime Minister on economic matters, gave a notable speech next. He spoke about India’s long history with the seas and the various steps the government has taken to boost the maritime field, with special attention to constructing ships and improving shipping services.

He praised the Indian Navy’s crucial help in building and testing INSV Kaundinya, a vessel meant to revive public interest in India’s ancient sea-faring legacy. This effort aims to remind people of the country’s past explorations and trade routes. During his talk, Sanyal also introduced a book from the National Maritime Foundation named Operationalising Project MAUSAM, which looks at ways to put cultural and weather-related maritime projects into action.

Why India’s Maritime Past Matters Today

India has always been a nation linked to the oceans, from ancient trade with distant lands to modern naval strengths. Reviving this sector not only creates jobs but also secures national interests in a world where sea lanes carry most global trade. Initiatives in shipbuilding reduce dependence on foreign yards and build local expertise. Projects like INSV Kaundinya inspire younger generations to value oceanic heritage while promoting tourism and education.

Pacific Islands Take Center Stage

Later sessions turned attention to the role of Pacific Island nations in the broader Indo-Pacific setup. Representatives from France, Germany, India, and Papua New Guinea explained why these small but strategic states matter so much. They suggested practical steps to increase teamwork, such as joint training, environmental protection, and infrastructure support.

These islands face unique issues like rising sea levels and limited resources, yet they hold key positions for navigation and security. Building stronger links can help everyone in the region tackle climate threats and ensure free movement across waters.

Aligning Regional Groups for Better Results

The day closed with a panel led by Sanjiv Ranjan, head of the Indian Ocean Rim Association. Specialists talked about creating better coordination between bodies like the Indian Ocean Rim Association, Indian Ocean Naval Symposium, Indian Ocean Commission, and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific.

They stressed that linking these frameworks could avoid overlap and spark new joint projects. Ideas included shared exercises, information exchange, and combined responses to threats like piracy or disasters.

Key Outcomes and Future Path

Over the three days, the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue 2025 earned praise from everyone involved. It delivered useful ideas for those making policies and working on the ground. The talks showed how tailored partnerships can lead to fresh multilateral efforts in maritime areas.

From protecting undersea cables to fostering green ocean economies, the event covered ground that affects daily lives and long-term security. It underlined India’s growing role as a bridge-builder in the region, ready to share knowledge and resources.

Events like this remind us that oceans do not divide nations but connect them. By working together on capacity and skills, countries can turn challenges into opportunities for growth and peace. The dialogue sets the stage for more such meetings, where real action follows thoughtful words.

As the Indo-Pacific region evolves, forums that bring diverse voices together remain essential. They help shape strategies that keep seas safe, prosperous, and open for all.