In a powerful opening address to the 24th Council of Ministers Meeting of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment & Tourism, Vijitha Herath, called on member states to embrace collective responsibility and take urgent action to preserve the Indian Ocean’s rich resources and ensure regional prosperity.
Delivering the welcome address as the newly-appointed Chair of IORA, Minister Herath said that the Indian Ocean is far more than a geographical entity — it is a shared heritage and a critical artery of global trade and biodiversity. “It supports the livelihoods of billions and connects our people, our economies, and our aspirations,” he told a distinguished gathering of ministers, diplomats, and high-level officials from across the region.
Herath warned that the Indian Ocean now stands at a crossroads, threatened by climate change, marine pollution, unsustainable exploitation of natural resources, and rising geopolitical tensions. “These are not future threats — they are current realities,” he said, urging member states to respond with a united and decisive front.
The Minister highlighted that the meeting provides a vital platform to transform challenges into opportunities by advancing regional cooperation, inclusive development, and environmental stewardship. “Let us be guided by unity and shared responsibility,” he urged. “Let us reaffirm our belief in the values of IORA — dialogue, inclusiveness, and respect for sovereignty.”
Key priorities discussed in his opening remarks included strengthening the Blue Economy, ensuring maritime safety and security, building climate resilience, and empowering women and youth. Without naming India, a notable focus was placed on tackling illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which he identified as a major threat to regional food security and marine ecosystems.
Herath proposed that the Council move beyond adoption of guidelines and commit to a comprehensive implementation plan supported by capacity building, shared information systems, and cooperative monitoring mechanisms. “This would reflect our collective resolve to protect marine biodiversity and promote equitable access to ocean resources,” he said.
The Minister reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s full commitment to the vision and goals of IORA. “We believe the Indian Ocean should be a zone of peace, prosperity, and partnership,” he said, while encouraging Member States to increase collaboration, share best practices, and invest in research and development.
As Chair, Sri Lanka pledged to lead the Association with “transparency, inclusivity, and ambition,” aiming to strengthen bridges across the region and enhance engagement with Dialogue Partners.
Closing his remarks, Minister Herath called on all present to rise to the moment. “Let us work together — not only for today but for the generations to come,” he said, setting a cooperative and forward-looking tone for the deliberations to follow.
The 24th IORA Council of Ministers Meeting is expected to produce key decisions and action-oriented outcomes to guide the region’s future in sustainable development, maritime cooperation, and geopolitical stability.
