Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman is likely to represent Bangladesh at the 9th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC– 2026,) to be held in Mauritius during April 10-12, 2026 in association with the Government of Mauritius, sources in Dhaka, New Delhi and Mumbai said.
Centered on the theme, “Collective Stewardship for Indian Ocean Governance,” IOC 2026 will bring together leaders, policymakers, and experts from across the Indian Ocean Region to deliberate on shared responsibilities, cooperative frameworks, and the future of regional governance.
In view of middle-east war and global energy crisis, Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman will discuss contemporary issues with participating countries beyond regular issues.
The 9th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) 2026, organised by the India Foundation and partners, gathers leaders, foreign ministers, and experts to focus on sustainable blue economy, maritime security, and regional cooperation, highlighting key involvement from India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Oman, and Australia.
Meanwhile, the 8th Indian Ocean Conference was held in Muscat on February 16, 2025 to explore opportunities and challenges on maritime trade and security, renewable energy, and technological innovation, according to Xinhua.
The two-day event under the theme “Voyage to New Horizons of Maritime Partnership,” organized by the ministry in collaboration with India Foundation, has attracted global ministers and experts in maritime, economic, and diplomatic affairs.
“The Indian Ocean is not merely a body of water but a major economic artery, a platform for trade exchange, and a bridge connecting nations,” the statement quoted Oman’s Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Al Busaidi’s remarks at the opening ceremony as saying.
Partnerships among Indian Ocean countries extend beyond maritime affairs to include energy, technology, and sustainable development, which are essential to ensuring the security and prosperity of the Indian Ocean, Al Busaidi said.
Launched in 2016 by the India Foundation in Singapore with participation from 30 countries, the conference has since served as a platform for countries from the region and beyond to discuss issues including security, economic cooperation, and environmental challenges
