Although Bhutan is a landlocked country, we are intrinsically connected to the Indian Ocean through ecological systems, trade, and other forms of connectivity. The Indian Ocean had long served us as a gateway for Bhutan and a vital link for our trade and connectivity with nations in the region and beyond.
Our access to the Indian Ocean is through India, which has been steadfast in its support for strengthening trade and connectivity routes. This unwavering support from the Government of India has not only made Bhutan’s access to the ocean possible but has also significantly contributed to Bhutan’s economic prosperity. Transport corridors and logistics hubs are being strengthened to foster a more integrated and connected future.
The Indian Ocean is not only a vital artery of global trade but also an important link for cultural exchange and ecological diversity. The ocean has sustained the livelihoods of millions of people and has connected us with one another. It is important that we continue to recognise our shared heritage across the ocean. The Indian Ocean is also a vast carbon sink, absorbing carbon and is critical to the global fight against rising temperatures and climate change. The ocean regulates regional weather, including monsoons and rainfall patterns, on which millions depend.
The Indian Ocean, however, faces numerous challenges, ranging from climate change and marine degradation to geopolitical competition. Any further degradation of the ocean will have a catastrophic impact not only on coastal areas but also on countries such as the Himalayan nation of Bhutan. The rapid melting of glaciers in the Himalayas due to rising temperatures is a serious challenge and a threat that Bhutan is facing at the moment. Similarly, the erratic and heavy monsoon storms that we increasingly experience are causing huge losses to livelihoods and national infrastructure.
It’s also vital to safeguard freedom of navigation in the Indian Ocean in accordance with international law. The ongoing conflicts around the world have shown that, despite geographic distance, any action that impairs freedom of navigation can have devastating effects on countries worldwide. What happens in the Indian Ocean matters to all of us; its health, security, and governance shape the future of our region.
Bhutan has not been able to shield itself from the impacts of the global fuel shortage caused by the ongoing conflicts. Overnight, fuel prices doubled, leading to a sharp increase in the cost of living for the people. While the Royal Government of Bhutan is making every effort to mitigate the impact, our citizens continue to bear the brunt, particularly those in low-income groups. As the COVID-19 pandemic had devastating effects on our economy, these conflicts and their subsequent effect on the cost of living are likely to undo all the recovery we have made since the pandemic.
Given our strong dependence on the Indian Ocean, it is pertinent that we continue to build collective stewardship of the ocean and strengthen its governance. It’s heartening to see, here today, recognition that the Indian Ocean is a common heritage and a shared space, guided by principles of inclusivity, mutual respect, transparency, and adherence to international law. The discussions we have already had on shifting from competition to cooperation, from short-term gains to long-term sustainability, and from fragmented approaches to holistic governance of the ocean are highly encouraging.
Bhutan believes that we should continue to strengthen regional institutions, foster dialogue, and promote trust-building measures, all of which are key to minimising challenges and enhancing collaboration across the Indian Ocean region. We firmly believe that no single nation can effectively manage the complex and interconnected issues of the Indian Ocean alone. It is important that we, as a region, come together to safeguard the many aspects of the ocean.
Bhutan would also call for enhanced economic cooperation by promoting blue economy initiatives such as sustainable fisheries, renewable ocean energy, and eco-tourism, which, while unlocking shared prosperity, also preserve the ocean’s health. As emphasised by our development philosophy of Gross National Happiness, harmony between human progress and environmental conservation is highly relevant to Indian Ocean governance. Our collective efforts should focus on the sustainable use of marine resources, the protection of biodiversity, and urgent action on climate change.
It is against this backdrop, and recognising that areas beyond national jurisdiction remain the common heritage of mankind, Bhutan has been actively following the BBNJ (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction) preparatory commission sessions and has also undertaken preliminary discussions on the process. From converting our shared challenges into shared opportunities to embracing collective stewardship of our common good, and from enhancing cooperation in a polarised world where prosperity is shared, our ecosystems are protected, and peace is preserved, Bhutan stands ready to contribute to this shared vision.
Author Brief Bio: H.E. D N Dhungyel is the Foreign Minister, Bhutan
