Recently, an interesting incident happened, which reflects the increasing competition in the Indian Ocean. The warships of India and China reached the Colombo port of Sri Lanka together. This incident has once again drawn attention to how deep the competition is going on between the two countries in the Indian Ocean. Let us understand this matter in detail.
What happened in Colombo?
On Monday morning, a strange situation arose at the Colombo port. On one hand, India’s powerful warship INS Mumbai arrived. It is a missile-equipped ship, carrying 410 sailors. On the other hand, three large warships from China also arrived there. These Chinese ships had about 1,500 soldiers. This scene shows that both India and China want to show their strength in the Indian Ocean. Both countries are trying to increase their influence in this area. This incident is an indication that tensions may increase here in the coming years.
Why is India worried?
Indian security stated “Chinese ships are now spending more time in the Indian Ocean than before. This is a matter of concern for India. The growing presence of China can threaten India’s maritime security.” The Indian Navy has 140 ships. Their job is to deal with Pakistan and stop China. But China’s growing power has alerted India. India feels that China wants to dominate the Indian Ocean. Apart from this, China has built its naval bases in many countries in recent years. For example, China has a military base in Djibouti. This has further increased India’s concern.
The importance of the Indian Ocean
The Indian Ocean is one of the most important sea routes in the world. Trade worth billions of dollars takes place here every year. The country that controls this area will have a great economic and strategic advantage. Oil and other important goods are transported through this ocean. The security of ships passing through here is very important. Therefore, both India and China want to increase their presence in this region. India believes that the Indian Ocean comes under its sphere of influence. But China also wants to strengthen its hold here. Therefore, this competition between the two countries is increasing.
Strategy of both countries
Both India and China are taking several steps to strengthen their position in the region:
- Modernization of the Navy: Both countries are modernizing their navy. New warships and submarines are being purchased.
- Military exercises: Both India and China are conducting military exercises with the countries in this region. With this, they are strengthening their relationships.
Development of ports: Both countries are developing ports in various countries in this region. This gives them safe havens for their ships.
Diplomatic efforts: Both India and China are strengthening their relations with the countries in this region. They are trying to get these countries on their side.
It is believed that in the coming times, the competition between India and China in the Indian Ocean may increase further. Both countries are strengthening their navy. They are trying to increase the number of their friendly countries in this area. This situation can affect the whole of Asia. If the tension escalates, it can affect the peace and security of the region. However, both countries understand that it is important to maintain peace.
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