Kochi Dialogue 2025 to Strengthen India-GCC Relations

TDT | Manama

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The Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR), in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of the Government of India, announced the Kochi Dialogue 2025, a landmark Track 1.5 diplomacy dialogue. This event, which will take place from January 16 to 17, 2025, in Kochi, Kerala, will mark a significant step toward strengthening India’s strategic ties with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

The event will bring together key stakeholders, including policymakers, diplomats, industry leaders, policy experts, and representatives from India and GCC nations, under the theme “India’s Look West Policy in Action: People, Prosperity, and Progress.” This dialogue seeks to address shared challenges, explore opportunities for collaboration, and chart a course for a sustainable and prosperous future.

A pivotal event highlight is the participation of H.E. Jasem Mohamed Al-Budaiwi, Secretary General of the GCC, whose presence underscores the growing importance of the India-GCC relationship. Kochi Dialogue 2025 is the first initiative to foster dialogue, actionable partnerships, and innovations to bridge regional and global priorities.

Focus Areas of Kochi Dialogue 2025

The dialogue will delve into six critical themes that shape the evolving partnership between India and GCC nations:

1. Trade, Economy & Investments

• Exploring frameworks such as the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to boost bilateral investments and improve business efficiency.

• Addressing maritime challenges impacting supply chains and identifying new investment opportunities across diverse sectors.

2. Maritime Strategic Partnership

• Strengthening maritime security cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

• Tackling India’s strategic priorities in safeguarding maritime interests in collaboration with GCC partners.

3. Education & Technology

• Promoting innovation through collaboration in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and innovative city development.

• Building partnerships in education and technology to advance growth and knowledge sharing.

4. Diaspora Connect

• Celebrating the Indian diaspora’s contributions to economic growth and cultural diplomacy in the GCC.

• Addressing the challenges faced by migrant workers and improving their livelihoods in the Gulf region.

5. Healthcare & Tourism

• Expanding cooperation in healthcare IT, telemedicine, and medical tourism.

• Attracting GCC investments in India’s tourism infrastructure, including luxury accommodations and wellness centres.

6. Energy Cooperation & Innovation

• Strengthening energy ties in oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors, focusing on green hydrogen and solar power.

• Fostering public-private partnerships for sustainable energy solutions.

Renowned Speakers and Participants

Kochi Dialogue 2025 will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers, including:

• Amb. T P Seetharam (Former Ambassador of India to the UAE)
• Amb. Talmiz Ahmad (Former Ambassador of India to Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the UAE)
• Admiral Sunil Lanba, PVSM, AVSM, IN (Retd) (Former Chief of the Naval Staff of India)
• Dr. Ebtesam Al-Ketbi (Founder and President of the Emirates Policy Center)
• Dr Ashraf Mohamed Keshk (Editor-in-Chief of Derasat Journal)
• Ahlam Yusuf Janahi (President of Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society)

Such esteemed individuals' presence underscores this dialogue's significance in addressing global and regional issues.

A Vision for the Future

Kochi Dialogue 2025 aspires to establish Kochi as a global hub for intellectual discourse and policy innovation.  This initiative aims to foster meaningful partnerships that align with India’s Look West Policy and long-term strategic goals by addressing pressing challenges in geopolitics, governance, trade, security, and sustainable development.

Through open discussions and actionable insights, the dialogue will play a key role in advancing the shared prosperity of India and GCC nations.

Join the Conversation

For more information, visit the official website: www.kochidialogue.in.

Follow KochiDialogue2025 across social media for updates and insights.