250 delegates expected at Indian Ocean Conference

Observer

13-02-2025

MUSCAT, FEB 12
Around 250 delegates from around the world are expected to gather in the Sultanate of Oman to attend the 8th Indian Ocean Conference, which will be held in Muscat on February 16 and 17, 2025. The theme of the conference is "Voyage to New Horizons of Maritime Partnership."
During a press conference at the Foreign Ministry, Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali al Harthy, Under-Secretary of the Foreign Ministry for Political Affairs, stated that the event will bring together foreign ministers from the Indian Ocean region. The conference will cover crucial topics related to the resources and security of the Indian Ocean. Shaikh Al Harthy stressed that the event aims to foster cooperation and address pressing issues such as piracy, illicit drug trafficking and terrorism. He highlighted Oman's Maritime Security Centre's role in responding to 173 emergency cases.
Dr Ram Madhav, President of India Foundation, highlighted the significance of the Indian Ocean region, home to approximately 36 countries and 3 billion people.
Dr Madhav emphasised that the region is vital as 70 per cent of container trade passes through it. He also noted the strong cultural, historical and civilisational connections among the countries in the region. Dr Madhav expressed gratitude for hosting the conference in Oman, citing the longstanding strategic partnership between India and Oman, rooted in a shared history spanning 5000 years.
Dr Madhav emphasised that discussions will focus on regional concerns, including maritime trade, supply chain challenges, human trafficking, climate change, disaster relief and rising sea levels. He underscored the importance of mutual support among countries in the region to address shared challenges.
One significant concern to be addressed is the issue of waste dumping in the sea.