A New Architecture for India–GCC Strategic Interdependence
Organised by: Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR), Kochi
In collaboration with: Policy Planning & Research (PP&R) Division, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India
Date: November 2026 (Dates to be announced)
Venue: Kochi, Kerala, India
Building the Next Chapter of India–GCC Relations
Kochi Dialogue is a premier Track 1.5 platform that brings together governments, business leaders, strategic thinkers, and academia to strengthen the growing partnership between India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
Organised by the Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR) in collaboration with the Policy Planning & Research (PP&R) Division of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, the Dialogue serves as a unique platform for diplomacy, business networking, policy dialogue, and strategic collaboration.
The inaugural Kochi Dialogue 2025, held on 16–17 January 2025, successfully convened ministers, senior government officials, ambassadors, business leaders, diplomats, and policy experts under the theme "India's Look West Policy in Action: People, Prosperity, and Progress."
Through discussions on trade, investment, maritime partnerships, education, healthcare, technology, diaspora engagement, and energy cooperation, the Dialogue established a strong foundation for long-term India–GCC engagement.
Building on that success, Kochi Dialogue 2026 aims to shape a new architecture of strategic interdependence between India and the GCC.
What to Expect
Kochi Dialogue 2026 will feature high-level engagements across diplomacy, business, and public policy, including:
- Track 1.5 Diplomacy Meet
- Ministerial and Secretary-Level Discussions
- Business Networking Sessions
- Topical Seminars and Expert Panel Discussions
- Special one-on-one interactions
Who Will Participate
Kochi Dialogue brings together influential stakeholders from India and the GCC, including:
- Ministers from India and GCC countries
- Ambassadors of GCC nations
- Secretary-level government officials
- Business and industry leaders
- Technology experts
- Ministers and senior officials from Indian states
- Think tank leaders and policy professionals
- Academics and researchers
- Diplomats from embassies and consulates
- Students and emerging policy leaders
What are the Focus Areas
The 2026 Dialogue will focus on emerging opportunities and strategic priorities, including:
- Diaspora Connect
- Energy Security
- Indian Ocean Maritime Order
- Reconstruction in the GCC
- Artificial Intelligence and Innovation
- Ports and Shipping
- India–GCC Free Trade Agreement (FTA)
- Food Security and AgriTech
- Civil Nuclear and Space Frontiers
Why Kochi
Located on India's southwest coast, Kochi has historically been India's gateway to the Gulf. Today, it remains a vibrant hub for commerce, maritime connectivity, innovation, and people-to-people ties, making it an ideal venue for advancing India–GCC cooperation.
Join the Dialogue
Kochi Dialogue 2026 offers an unparalleled platform to engage with policymakers, diplomats, industry leaders, researchers, and innovators shaping the future of India–GCC relations.
Together, let us build a new architecture for India–GCC strategic interdependence.
Stay Updated
The excitement for Kochi Dialogue 2026 is just beginning.
The event will be held in November 2026, with the exact dates to be announced soon. We are currently finalising the programme and speaker lineup.
Keep watching this space for updates. The official dates, agenda, speakers, and other event details will be announced shortly.
Registration will open once the dates are announced. Delegate registration links and participation details will be made available on this website.
We look forward to welcoming you to Kochi for another landmark edition of the Kochi Dialogue.