2 - Reimagining the Indian Ocean in Contemporary Asia and Africa

Presentation Abstract
The Indian Ocean, long regarded as a vital conduit of commerce and culture, is experiencing a profound transformation in the contemporary geopolitical landscape of Asia and Africa. This research explores the evolving dynamics, challenges, and opportunities that define the reimagining of the Indian Ocean region in contemporary Asia and Africa. The Indian Ocean has emerged as a focal point for global attention, driven by the strategic interests of Asian and African nations. Rapid economic growth, rising populations, and increasing energy demands have spurred intense competition for maritime resources and trade routes. China's ambitious control over the South China Sea has extended its influence into the Indian Ocean, reshaping maritime power dynamics. Simultaneously, the United States have sought to assert their presence in the region, leading to complex power rivalries.The Indian Ocean also presents an opportunity for cooperation. The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the African Union have gained prominence, fostering dialogue and collaboration among member states. Initiatives on Indian Ocean studies, such as the newly formed Airlangga Institute for Indian Crossroads (AIIOC) has also shown the growing interest on the current issue. This study sees the contemporary reimagining of the Indian Ocean in Asia and Africa as a multifaceted process shaped by strategic interests, geopolitical competition, and the pursuit of regional stability and prosperity. Looking at Indian Ocean as an evolving landscape requires a delicate balance between competition and cooperation, with the potential for transformative outcomes that benefit the nations and people of the region.