India was accepted as an observer in the Indian Ocean Commision on Friday, getting a seat at the table of the organization that handles maritime governance in the western Indian Ocean. India’s entry is a consequence of its deepening strategic partnership with France as well as its expanding ties with the Vanilla Islands.

Sources said the decision came at Friday’s meeting of the Commission’s council of ministers in Seychelles . India had made the application to be an observer last month. The Commission has four observers — China, EU, Malta and International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF). The Indian Ocean Commission consists of Comoros , Madagascar, Mauritius , Réunion (French overseas territory) and Seychelles.

For India, the importance of joining this organization lies in several things. First, India will get an official foothold in a premier regional institution in the western Indian Ocean, boosting engagement with islands in this part of the Indian Ocean. These island nations are increasingly important for India’s strategic outreach as part of its Indo-Pacific policy.

Sources said this move would enhance ties with France which is the strong global power in the western Indian Ocean. “It lends depth to India’s SAGAR (security and growth for all in the region) policy unveiled by PM Modi in 2015”, an official said.

The move, India hopes, would lead to greater security cooperation with countries in East Africa .

For the moment, India would showcase its growing capability and intent as a first responder for crises in this region, as was seen during the recent floods in Madagascar when India sent the INS Airavat with relief supplies to the country. India will also promote development cooperation in this region.

