The Indian Navy will host the fourth edition of the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD) in New Delhi from October 3rd to 5th, 2024. This apex-level international conference will focus on the theme "Resource-Geopolitics and Security in the Indo-Pacific," exploring the complex relationship between resource competition and security in the region.
The IPRD-2024 follows the recently concluded Goa Maritime Symposium 2024, which focused on operational-level maritime cooperation. In contrast, the IPRD serves as the Indian Navy's primary platform for strategic-level engagement with international partners.
This year's dialogue will delve into the critical aspects of "Marine Resources" and "Resource Sharing," two key pillars of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). Experts will analyze how traditional and emerging marine resources are shaping geopolitical dynamics in the Indo-Pacific.
Key topics of discussion include:
- Dwindling fish stocks and the rise of Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing: The conference will address the challenges posed by overfishing and IUU fishing, particularly in areas beyond national jurisdiction.
- Competition for critical minerals: The geopolitical implications of the increasing demand for cobalt, lithium, nickel, rare earth elements, and other minerals crucial for renewable energy technologies will be examined.
- Offshore energy resources: The conference will assess the ongoing significance of hydrocarbons and the emergence of unconventional energy sources like gas hydrates and ocean-sourced hydrogen.
The event will also include "Special Addresses" by prominent figures and active participation from students, researchers, diplomats, and think tanks, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas.
The IPRD is an annual event that provides a platform for in-depth discussions on critical maritime issues. Previous editions have addressed topics such as operationalizing the IPOI and the geopolitical impacts on maritime trade and connectivity. The 2024 edition aims to further advance the understanding of resource-related challenges and opportunities in the Indo-Pacific region.
