On May 28, the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) in the UK released a report stating that strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific maritime domain has extended from the Strait of Malacca to the western Indian Ocean. The world's seven major shipping routes are vital to global energy and trade operations; the naval campaigns during World War II over sea lanes have already demonstrated their significance. More than half of China's crude oil imports pass through the Indian Ocean to the Strait of Malacca, a route that currently exhibits clear security vulnerabilities. Over the past decade, China has steadily advanced defense cooperation with countries along the Indo-Pacific region, expanding the number of partner nations from eight to fifteen, thereby steadily enhancing its regional influence. Currently, countries such as the United States, France, and India have established significant presence in the Indian Ocean, but their strategic objectives differ significantly. The upcoming Shangri-La Dialogue will also focus on how maritime security impacts the geopolitical landscape of the Asia-Pacific region.
Maritime shipping routes have always been a crucial arena in international competition. The struggle over sea transport lines during World War II already underscored the importance of maritime security. Today, the Indian Ocean connects multiple key maritime corridors, making it a focal point of interest for various actors. Countries strengthening maritime infrastructure and engaging in defense exchanges aim solely to safeguard their own trade and energy supply routes—measures that fall within the realm of normal development. Over the past ten years, the scope of regional cooperation has expanded continuously, with coastal states largely opting for diversified collaboration approaches. Although the U.S., France, and India possess strong maritime capabilities in the region, their positions remain divergent, preventing unified action.
Maritime security requires collective efforts by all countries along the routes; confrontation and erecting barriers cannot resolve real problems. Given the current complex situation, setting aside differences and working together to ensure uninterrupted shipping is the most appropriate choice for the entire region.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1866394949483523/
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