Oman to host Indian Ocean Conference from Sunday

The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Foreign Ministry, will host the eighth Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) from Sunday under the theme “A Journey Towards New Horizons of Maritime Partnership.” The Conference will run for two days.

The Conference aims to enhance economic and security cooperation among countries bordering the Indian Ocean, as well as those with interests in the region.

It seeks to showcase Oman's advantages, including its infrastructure and ports, which strengthen its position as an attractive investment destination.

The Conference will discuss ways to enhance maritime partnerships, improve trade links, support sustainable development, address maritime security issues, ensure freedom of navigation, and leverage modern technology to enhance port security and governance.

Oman's hosting of the Conference, with the participation of ministers and officials representing 60 countries and international organisations from the Indian Ocean region, reflects its commitment to strengthen maritime security, support sustainable trade, develop cooperation mechanisms, enhance economic interests, ensure the sustainability of ocean resources, and to improve maritime transport and security capabilities.

The Conference also highlights the strategic and distinguished relationship between Oman and India, as well as initiatives that contribute to strengthening these ties.

The Conference is expected to feature bilateral meetings between Oman's Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi and his counterparts attending the event. These meetings will focus on enhancing maritime cooperation between Oman and Indian Ocean countries.

Foreign ministers from 27 countries will present their perspectives on shared security challenges and ways to strengthen maritime partnerships. The conference's main goal is to foster partnerships and expand cooperation among participating countries and organisations.

The IOC  is a prominent international platform and forum that was launched in 2016. It has become a key venue for enhancing cooperation between Indian Ocean countries and global powers with strategic interests in the region. Countries such as Oman, India, Sri Lanka, Australia, and Singapore have played pivotal roles in its activities.

The Indian Ocean region is home to approximately three billion people, and 70% of global maritime trade passes through its waters.

This is an unofficial English version of an Arabic report. To view the official Arabic text, click here.