NEW DELHI – Indian and European maritime thinking moved closer with Spain’s endorsement of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). The decision reflects a shared commitment to the SAGAR vision of security and growth for all and shows how India’s diplomacy is steadily shaping cooperation and norms across the Indian Ocean region. When Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares sat down with India’s S. Jaishankar in New Delhi, he wasn’t just there for a formal visit. He was there to hand over a signed document that officially brought Spain into the IPOI. With this move, Spain becomes the fourth major European power—after the UK, France, and Italy—to throw its weight behind India’s vision for the sea.
A Bridge from Madrid to Delhi
For many, Spain might seem like a distant partner, yet its decision to join the IPOI is a strategic acknowledgment of India’s central role in Indo-Pacific security. As 2026 marks 70 years of diplomatic ties, this accession is the result of long-standing cooperation and signals European reliance on India as the region’s anchor. Europe knows its trade and energy supply depend on open Indo-Pacific waterways—making partnership with India essential if these routes are to remain secure.
The Human Side of Naval Power
The strength of this partnership rests on more than hardware—it’s about trust built through years of joint naval operations. Examples include the 2023 joint rescue by Spanish and Indian ships and the 2024 Mediterranean exercises. These interactions build the human trust that powers India’s successful naval diplomacy and further highlight India’s growing leadership in the region.
Why India is the “Natural Choice”
Why is Europe suddenly lining up to join an India-led initiative? The answer lies in India’s SAGAR vision—Security and Growth for All in the Region. Unlike other global powers that might try to dominate or build secret bases, India’s approach is transparent. The IPOI is built on seven pillars, covering everything from protecting the environment to responding to disasters. Spain is particularly interested in the “Maritime Ecology” and “Disaster Risk” sections. They see that India isn’t trying to start a fight; it’s trying to build a neighborhood watch for the ocean.
What It Means for the World
Spain is bringing Atlantic naval expertise from the Andaman Islands to the African coast, reinforcing Indian Ocean patrolling at critical chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb. This joint effort has reduced piracy by 80%, helping keep global trade—electronics, fuel, and industrial materials—affordable and on time. As Minister Jaishankar said, a free and open ocean is a necessity, not a luxury. Spain’s participation fortifies this necessity with a stronger, more diverse team. The Indian Navy now proves itself an indispensable global security partner.
Ashu Mann
Ashu Mann is an Associate Fellow at the Centre for Land Warfare Studies. He was awarded the Vice Chief of the Army Staff Commendation card on Army Day 2025. He is pursuing a PhD in Defense and Strategic Studies at Amity University, Noida. His research focuses include the India-China territorial dispute, great power rivalry, and Chinese foreign policy.
- Ashu Mann#molongui-disabled-link
- Ashu Mann#molongui-disabled-link
- Ashu Mann#molongui-disabled-link
