Minister Vivian Balakrishnan delivers insights on the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean and emphasizes the urgency of sustainability measures during the Seventh Indian Ocean Conference in Perth.
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, spoke at the Inaugural Session of the Seventh Indian Ocean Conference in Perth, Australia, on 9 February 2024. The conference, attended by dignitaries including President Ranil Wickremesinghe of Sri Lanka and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, focused on the theme “Towards a Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean.” Dr Balakrishnan highlighted two main themes in his address: the strategic significance of the Indian Ocean and the imperative of sustainability.
In his speech, Dr Balakrishnan underscored the historical, cultural, and economic importance of the Indian Ocean, which has served as a conduit for trade, culture, and colonization throughout history. He noted the presence of 26 littoral states in the Indian Ocean region and highlighted the significance of choke points such as the Straits of Malacca and the Suez Canal in global trade.
Regarding sustainability, Dr Balakrishnan expressed concerns about rising sea surface temperatures and coral bleaching in the Indian Ocean. He highlighted Singapore’s efforts in international climate negotiations, including co-sponsoring resolutions on climate protection and participating in the BBNJ treaty on marine biodiversity. Additionally, he mentioned Singapore’s initiatives on green shipping corridors to support decarbonization and sustainable growth in the maritime industry.
Dr Balakrishnan emphasized the importance of maintaining a rules-based global order, resolving disputes peacefully, and prioritizing sustainability efforts to ensure a stable and prosperous future for the Indian Ocean region.
