Muscat – H E Sayyid Badr Al Busaidi, Foreign Minister, took part in the 9^th Indian Ocean Conference 2026, held in Mauritius via video link on Friday.

Being held from April 10 to 12, the event has brought together Navin Ramgoolam, Prime Minister of Mauritius, and foreign ministers and senior officials from Indian Ocean countries to deliberate on the prospects of security and growth for all in the region.

The conference serves as an important international platform to promote dialogue and cooperation across the region. It addresses shared challenges, including maritime security, freedom of navigation, sustainable management of marine resources and strengthening regional partnership.

In his remarks, H E Sayyid Badr expressed regret that he could not attend in person due to current regional developments. He welcomed the recent ceasefire between America and Iran and called for stronger international efforts to reinforce security and stability in the Indian Ocean region.

He also called for a cooperative and responsible approach based on shared responsibility. The minister underlined the need to safeguard freedom of navigation and protect maritime interests. “The Indian Ocean requires strong collective stewardship to improve security, to ensure stability, and support freedom of navigation and trade,” he posted on X after his address.

H E Sayyid Badr reaffirmed Oman’s commitment to international law, including the law of the sea, respect for state sovereignty and non-interference.

He highlighted the importance of protecting the marine environment and addressing damage caused by conflicts, while calling for a balanced approach between developing blue economy opportunities and preserving marine ecosystems to serve regional populations and future generations.

He concluded by reaffirming Oman’s consistent approach based on positive neutrality, dialogue and mutual respect, with focus on strengthening understanding and cooperation to ensure a secure and sustainable future for the Indian Ocean and its peoples.