India to Strengthen Indian Ocean Rim Association as ‘Vishwa Mitra’ and Voice of Global South

India is poised to work closely with the member states of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) to enhance the grouping’s institutional, financial, and legal framework. Speaking at the 23rd IORA Council of Ministers’ meeting in Colombo, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized India’s role as a ‘Vishwa Mitra’ and a voice of the Global South.

As Vice Chair of IORA for 2023-25, India is eager to develop a stable, prosperous, and resilient Indian Ocean community capable of both close cooperation within the region and responding to developments beyond the ocean. India will assume the Chairship of IORA in 2025-27. Jaishankar’s visit to Sri Lanka includes not only IORA engagements but also bilateral meetings in Colombo.