Muscat – The 8th Indian Ocean Conference concluded on Monday, highlighting opportunities and challenges for countries in the region while emphasising the need for stronger regional cooperation.

On the final day, the India-Indian Ocean Economic Forum was held, attended by H E Sayyid Badr bin Hamad al Busaidi, Foreign Minister of Oman, H E Qais bin Mohammed al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, along with other officials and conference participants.

H E Yousef described the conference as “a platform dedicated to fostering maritime partnerships and economic integration across our region.” He reaffirmed Oman’s commitment to strengthening ties with its neighbours and building a regional economic ecosystem that promotes shared prosperity.

He noted that trade has always been central to Oman’s identity, recalling how Omani sailors historically navigated across the Indian Ocean to trade with Africa, India, and China. “That same maritime tradition continues today, with Oman serving as a strategic gateway between the East and the West,” he said. “From the bustling souqs 5,000 years ago to our modern free zones and world-class ports, Oman has always been a champion of trade.”

The minister underscored the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean, stating, “It is not just a body of water—it is an economic lifeline.” He pointed out that nearly 80% of global oil trade and a significant share of the world’s container traffic pass through the region. Despite handling billions of dollars in trade annually, he said, “we are only scratching the surface of our collective potential.”

Miyaji Takuma, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, stressed the importance of shared regional interests and collaboration. He called for stronger ties to promote economic growth, tackle geopolitical challenges, and address climate change. He also emphasised the need for advanced technology, adherence to international agreements, and enhanced maritime security to protect free global trade.

The closing day featured three main sessions. The first, “Strengthening Global Maritime Cooperation,” focused on securing freedom of navigation, enhancing maritime trade, protecting the marine environment, and addressing climate change through international agreements. The second session, “Innovative Port Security,” discussed the role of technology in port security and regional cooperation in setting global standards. The third session, “Global Marine Resource Management – Challenges and Opportunities,” examined ways to manage marine resources effectively while promoting regional collaboration.

The conference concluded with a joint dialogue session featuring H E Sayyid Badr bin Hamad al Busaidi, Dr Ram Madhav, Chairman of the India Foundation, and Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary East at India’s Ministry of External Affairs. Participants discussed the future of regional relations, maritime security, trade, and solutions to environmental and economic challenges in the Indian Ocean.

H E Sayyid Badr described the conference as “an opportunity to enhance regional and international cooperation in maritime security, trade, and sustainable development.” He expressed hope that the discussions would lead to “constructive partnerships and purposeful initiatives that benefit the region.”

H E Sheikh Khalifa bin Ali al Harthy, Undersecretary for Political Affairs at Oman’s Foreign Ministry, said, “The conference explored ways to utilise oceans—especially the Indian Ocean—to enhance partnerships among nations.” He highlighted bilateral meetings with delegations from more than 30 countries and private sector representatives, focusing on investment potential and the challenges facing maritime routes. “All participants agreed on the importance of enhancing cooperation and coordination in this regard,” he added.

Hosting the conference reflects Oman’s role in strengthening regional and international cooperation in the Indian Ocean. It also underscores its commitment to constructive dialogue and sustainable partnerships for a more prosperous future.