Defence: New power struggles in the Indian Ocean

Geographically the Indian Ocean is the fulcrum on which much of the world turns as it provides vital sea routes linking the major powers. Now China and India are adding muscle to underline their claim to control the sea as GIS expert, Professor Jaime Pinto explains.

THE Indian Ocean is a vital waterway, bordering 47 countries and connecting the Middle East, Africa and East Asia with Europe and America.

Forty per cent of the world`s oil production is located in its seabed and two thirds of the world’s oil shipping movements pass through its seas.

Its geostrategic relevance is enormous. It is almost impossible to imagin...