The region of the Indian Ocean: a theater of great power rivalries, an economic powerhouse, a crucial geographical zone for maritime trade and security, a new norms setter, and an essential commercial hub. For all these reasons combined, the region is central to ongoing and upcoming geoeconomic shifts and the transformation of the Western powers' shaped international order as we know it today. This region is of crucial importance for France's security, economy, and diplomatic leverage, being the only Indo-Pacific power among the European Union's Member States, thanks to its overseas territories. Amidst the ongoing power competition in the region, middle powers are rising and shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific, and more broadly, of the international order, through new partnerships, alliances and infrastructure projects. Looking ahead to 2025, we aim to discuss the main prospects and challenges of the region from the perspective of a local actor. Therefore, on February 4, 2025, we will have the chance to gain insights into the region from Sri Lanka's perspective. Our guest speaker will be Rishan de Silva, Executive Director of the Sri Lankan think tank, The Geopolitical Cartographer.