Oman to host Indian Ocean Conference
The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Foreign Ministry, is to host the 8th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC): “A Voyage Towards New Horizons of Maritime Partnership”.
The two day conference begins on February 16 and aims to foster regional and international cooperation in maritime affairs.
Launched in 2016, the IOC has become a leading international forum for enhancing cooperation among Indian Ocean states and global powers with strategic interests in the region.
Countries such as Oman, India, Sri Lanka, Australia, and Singapore have played key roles in shaping its activities.
Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi said that hosting this conference reflects Oman's commitment to enhancing maritime security, supporting sustainable maritime trade, and developing mechanisms of international cooperation to address shared regional challenges.
He added that the conference serves as a strategic platform for exchanging views on the future of the blue economy and ocean governance.
The Minister said Oman hopes that the IOC will produce constructive discussions which will benefit participating countries and contribute to regional stability and prosperity.
Topics for consideration at the IOC include:
- strengthening maritime partnerships
- enhancing trade connectivity
- supporting sustainable development
- addressing maritime security concerns
- ensuring freedom of navigation
- leveraging modern technology to improve port security and governance
As an annual international platform, the IOC aims to tackle challenges facing the Indian Ocean region and to bolster cooperation.
The conference aligns with Oman Vision 2040 in several ways:
- promoting Oman's economic interests with regional and global partners
- reinforcing the Sultanate’s leadership in sustaining Indian Ocean resources
- maximising Oman’s potential in maritime transport, security, and economic competitiveness
More than 60 countries and international organisations are expected to participate, highlighting the strategic importance of the region and the need for collaborative solutions to shared challenges.
The Conference will also provide participants with opportunities for bilateral and multilateral meetings to explore new avenues for future cooperation.
This is an unofficial English version of an Arabic report. To view the official Arabic text, click here.