The Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, has joined regional and global leaders at the Ninth Indian Ocean Conference underway in Port Louis, Mauritius, from April 10 to 12, 2026, where discussions are centred on maritime security, trade, climate resilience and economic cooperation.
The high-level forum has convened heads of government, diplomats, maritime experts and development partners from Indian Ocean rim countries to examine emerging opportunities and shared risks shaping the region’s future, with particular focus on securing sea lanes, unlocking blue economy potential and strengthening regional integration.
Opening the conference, Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam underscored the urgency of collective action, calling for stronger unity and accountability among member states in confronting transnational threats, climate pressures and uneven economic growth.
He stressed that coordinated efforts remain critical in safeguarding the region’s long-term stability and prosperity.
India’s External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar echoed the call for deeper cooperation, reaffirming India’s commitment to a secure, stable and inclusive Indian Ocean.
He highlighted the importance of joint responses to maritime insecurity, climate change and sustainable development challenges, noting that resilience in the region depends on shared responsibility.
At the forum, Minister Kombo is taking part in high-level deliberations, advancing Tanzania’s position on enhanced regional collaboration and the strategic development of the blue economy as a driver of growth.
He is also expected to hold a series of bilateral meetings with counterparts from participating countries to strengthen diplomatic ties and unlock new avenues for trade and investment.
The Indian Ocean Conference continues to serve as a critical platform for policy dialogue and strategic alignment, enabling participating nations to harmonise approaches, exchange expertise and shape coordinated frameworks aimed at accelerating sustainable development across the region.
