The Indian Ocean is the third largest ocean on Earth. It covers 73.5 million square kilometres and is a major lifeline for 36 countries and territories–more than double the number that border the Pacific.
Issues affecting the ocean, which affect the countries bordering it, set the scene for discussion at the 12th Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IOR-ARC) Council of Ministers in Gurgaon, India on 2 November.
Attending the meeting as Australia's representative, Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs Richard Marles renewed our commitment to Indian Ocean cooperation.
Mr Marles said issues of ocean sustainability, such as sustainable fisheries management, adaptation to climate change, food security and economic integration were critical for the future development of Indian Ocean countries.
'By working together we can respond to common challenges,' Mr Marles said.
Mr Marles announced that Australia would provide $1.3 million ($1.1 million of this from AusAID) to support a range of initiatives that include enhancing ocean forecasting, strengthening adaptation to climate variability, and developing capacity in marine and fisheries management.
Australia will also help officials from IOR-ARC member states to study maritime regulation, enforcement and security in Australia, and provide support for a meeting of disaster risk reduction officials.
'These initiatives will help Indian Ocean countries address the common and intersecting challenges of food and water security, maritime safety, healthy oceans, changing climate, economic integration, and disaster preparedness,' Mr Marles said.
There are 19 member countries of IOR-ARC–Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Iran, Kenya, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mozambique, Oman, Singapore, Seychelles, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Yemen and Australia.
Australia took on the two-year position of Vice Chair of IOR-ARC in 2011 and will assume the role of Chair in 2013 for a two year term.
'Through these initiatives we can take further practical steps towards genuine regionalism–revitalising and rejuvenating cooperation in the Indian Ocean,' Mr Marles said.
More information
Media release: Australia commits to supporting Indian Ocean sustainability (external website)