Maritime Security is a Fundamental Issue for the Global Economy

TEHRAN (Defapress) - Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, in his speech at the 8th Indian Ocean Conference in Muscat, stated: Today, we have gathered in a land that has been known for centuries as a bridge between East and West, among great civilizations and distant and nearby nations. Oman, our cultured host, has long been not only an economic player but also a symbol of interaction, dialogue, and constructive diplomacy in the Indian Ocean region. This region, which has always been at the heart of global developments, continues to play a decisive role in the future of the international economy.

Araghchi added: Throughout history, seas have always been more than geographical boundaries; they have been gateways connecting civilizations. The Indian Ocean, for thousands of years, has been a highway for trade, cultural exchange, and civilizational development. This route has connected merchants from the coasts of India to Africa, from the islands of Indonesia to the Persian Gulf, and from Iran to the Red Sea. In an era when land routes were long and unsafe, it was this ocean that connected emerging economies and created new opportunities.

The Foreign Minister continued: But today, the world is undergoing fundamental changes. The speed of economic and technological transformations, the dependence of countries on new trade routes, and the need for regional security and cooperation have become more important than ever. In such circumstances, we can no longer rely on traditional routes and old patterns of trade. We must design a future in which the Indian Ocean is not just a transit route but a hub for strategic and economic cooperation. This is the philosophy behind the title of this year's conference, "Voyage to New Horizons of Maritime Partnership." This title is not just a slogan but reflects a historical necessity for all countries in the region.

He noted that the Islamic Republic of Iran, recognizing these changes, has placed a "maritime-oriented" policy at the strategic priority of its development. A country with more than 5,800 kilometers of coastline—4,900 kilometers of which are in the south, along this vast ocean—cannot remain indifferent to its future. Developing a maritime-oriented economy is not just a choice for Iran; it is a necessity. We have realized that our coasts are not just the natural borders of the country but also gateways connecting Iran to the global economy. Therefore, the 13th government of the Islamic Republic of Iran has developed a comprehensive and operational plan for the development of ports, maritime transportation, and the creation of a regional supply chain.

Araghchi emphasized: In this regard, the Makran coasts hold a special place. These coasts, whose natural and economic potential had been neglected for centuries, have now become one of the priorities of national development. The "Lost Paradise" of Makran must today become the economic hub of Iran and the region in the future.

The Foreign Minister added: The government of the Islamic Republic of Iran, relying on this strategy, has set 4 key goals for the development of this region: First, strengthening local and indigenous economies, creating sustainable employment for communities residing in these areas, and supporting small and medium-sized industries that can play a role in the regional supply chain. Second, developing energy infrastructure, with an emphasis on renewable energy. We have realized that the future economy depends on sustainable and clean energy. Investing in new energy technologies and reducing dependence on fossil fuels is not only environmentally essential but will also help make this region more competitive.

He further stated: Third, completing international transit routes and strengthening transportation corridors. Creating a network of rail, road, and maritime routes that connect Iran to other countries in the region and beyond is one of the key pillars of our maritime-oriented policy. And fourth, attracting domestic and foreign investment as the driving force of economic development. No economy will grow without sustainable investment, and we welcome all countries that participate in the development of this region.

Araghchi stated: However, none of these plans will be realized without sustainable security. Maritime security is today more than ever a fundamental issue for the global economy. The Islamic Republic of Iran, alongside its economic and trade roles, also bears the responsibility of ensuring maritime security. The Iranian Navy, in cooperation with regional countries, has continuously played a role in anti-piracy operations, combating drug trafficking, and organized crime, and ensuring the security of shipping. We believe that maritime security should not be a tool for pressure or the influence of extra-regional powers but should be the result of cooperation among regional countries.

The Foreign Minister emphasized: At the same time, no country can advance on its path of economic development alone. Regional cooperation is the key to shared progress. Iran, through its membership in the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), emphasizes its commitment to multilateralism and economic and security cooperation in the region.

He stated: But there is a significant challenge: some extra-regional powers seek to exploit political, economic, and security gaps in the region and influence the natural cooperation among regional countries. We cannot allow the geopolitical rivalries of global powers to determine the future of this region. Decisions about the fate of the Indian Ocean must be made by the countries of this region and for the benefit of its nations.

Araghchi concluded: I am very pleased that this meeting is being held in the friendly and brotherly country of Oman, a nation that has always been a symbol of interaction, dialogue, and constructive diplomacy in the region. We believe that only through cooperation and mutual trust can a sustainable future be created for the nations of the region. I hope this conference marks the beginning of a new chapter in maritime and regional cooperation.