WORLD trade relies heavily on sea routes, with approximately 90% of goods transported by maritime transport.

Raw materials, finished goods, crude oil and security equipment are traded globally in this trade exchange, minimizing costs. China is expanding its strategic influence in the Indian Ocean, notably through the Gwadar and Hambantota ports as part of its “String of Pearls” initiative. The US counters this by leveraging its bases across the Indian Ocean. This region’s control of trade routes is now the focus of global competition to influence world events. The Asian Hegemon will be whoever controls this region.

The Indian Ocean, covering 20% of the global ocean area, is crucial for connecting Africa, Asia and Australia. Global trade heavily relies on the Indian Ocean region, making it a key strategic area. There are 38 countries around the Indian Ocean Region. Spanning more than 6,200 miles, it facilitates roughly 80% of global trade. This gives the region enormous significance. To grasp its true significance, it must be studied as a single strategic continuum rather than isolated national zones or disconnected sub-regions.

The islands scattered across the Indian Ocean—from the Strait of Malacca in Southeast Asia to the Mozambique Channel off Africa’s coast—occupy critical geographic positions that are once again taking centre stage in global geopolitics. Historically pivotal during European colonization and World War II, these islands served as military outposts and maritime waypoints, enabling control over vast swaths of the........

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