"Indian Ocean Centre Of Emerging Age Of Asia": Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal

"We, who live in and around the Indian Ocean, must own and bear primary responsibility for peace, stability and prosperity in the region," Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Saturday stressed on harnessing marine resources and ecologically responsible economic growth in the South East Asian region for sustainable development. In the last 8 years, under the leadership of Hon'ble PM Shri @narendramodi ji, India has enhanced its engagement with #SEAsia for prosperity of all.As Modi ji says, the destiny of the world will be shaped by the course of development in the Indo-Pacific. pic.twitter.com/07p8vzJpZQ

He said India is seeking a "more cooperative and integrated future for the region through development of the ocean-based blue economy".

"A distinct feature of the blue economy lies in harnessing of marine resources for economic and social development and environmental sustainability without undermining the conservation and restocking aspects of these finite natural resources," said the minister of ports, shipping and waterways.

Linking economic growth with ecological balance, Sonowal said, "A related aspect is the emergence of the blue economy as a promising new pillar of prosperity in the region, with immense economic and employment potential." 'Blue economy' refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystem.