India is quietly trying to obtain maritime pre-eminence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). It is not just gaining operational control of the Chabahar Port that will be a game-changer for India. India achieved a diplomatic coup of sorts, when its navy got rights at Duqm Port in Oman, Delhi’s understated but oldest strategic partner in the Gulf. During Modi’s visit to Oman and the UAE, it was decided to widen defence partnership with both countries.But it is not just outreach with the regional powers. It would only be prudent for India now to conceive a Maritime Transportation Agreement with the western part of IOR on the lines conceived with Southeast Asia, in the backdrop of further Chinese inroads in the area.

Source: Economic Times February 21, 2018 17:15 UTC