The United States, India, France, and other major players all share interests in the Indian Ocean, making the region geopolitically important. While some of these countries developed policies that prioritized and engaged with the island nations that call the region home, the United States focused its priorities elsewhere. The recent security deal between China and the Solomon Islands only further demonstrates China’s growing presence as the main competition for the United States in the region. President Biden’s first trip to Asia since taking office starts tomorrow, and the stage is set for him to emphasize the United States’ commitment to reprioritizing the region.  

Darshana Baruah, a fellow in Carnegie’s South Asia Program where she leads the Indian Ocean Initiative, joins Doug to unpack the strategic significance of the Indian Ocean region. 

Follow Doug on Twitter @DouglasLFarrar. 

1. Darshana M. Baruah. (2022, May 2). “The Strategic Importance of the Indian Ocean.” Carnegie Endowment for International Peace