India and the United States discussed ways to expand practical cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region, with a focus on maritime security, strategic infrastructure and connectivity.
The discussions took place during a phone conversation between Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and US Under Secretary of State Allison M. Hooker, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.
The engagement comes as New Delhi and Washington continue to strengthen their strategic partnership and coordinate on issues affecting the wider Indian Ocean region. The two countries have increasingly focused on maritime security, economic connectivity and regional stability as key areas of cooperation.
The Indian Ocean Strategic Venture (IOSV), a bilateral, whole-of-government forum, was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump in Washington in February 2025. The initiative aims to promote coordinated investments in economic connectivity and commerce across the Indian Ocean region.
The United States has recognised India’s role as a developmental partner, humanitarian assistance provider and net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region. The initiative is intended to deepen bilateral dialogue and cooperation across the strategically important maritime region.
The latest discussions also come amid continued US emphasis on India’s growing strategic importance in the Indian Ocean. Washington has described India as a critical regional power and has expressed interest in strengthening its partnership with New Delhi.
Earlier this month, US Under Secretary of War for Policy Elbridge Colby said the United States views India as a critical power and wants to further strengthen bilateral cooperation. He also rejected suggestions that changes in US military command terminology indicated reduced American attention toward India or the Indian Ocean.
The renewed focus on maritime security, infrastructure and connectivity is expected to further reinforce India-US strategic cooperation and support greater stability and economic engagement across the Indian Ocean region.
