Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef has arrived in Kunming, China, to participate in the Third China-Indian Ocean Region Forum on Blue Economy Development Cooperation. The forum, scheduled from 15 to 17 December 2024, aims to enhance marine cooperation and promote sustainable development among Indian Ocean nations.
Upon arrival at Kunming Changshui International Airport, Vice President Latheef was welcomed by Luo Hongjiang, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of Yunnan Province’s People’s Congress; Tang Ying, Head of the Global Development Promotion Center of the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA); and Wang Wei, Deputy Director General of Yunnan Province’s Foreign Affairs Office.
The China-Indian Ocean Region Forum on Blue Economy Development Cooperation serves as a platform for countries bordering the Indian Ocean to collaborate on sustainable marine economic practices. Themed “The Future of the Blue Indian Ocean Development, Practices of the Global South,” this year’s forum features thematic discussions, sub-forums, and roundtables addressing various topics related to the blue economy. Nearly 100 high-level representatives from different nations and international organisations are expected to attend, reflecting the forum’s expanded scale and significance.
CIDCA Deputy Head Zhao Fengtao highlighted the forum’s role in supporting development cooperation for the Global South, particularly benefiting Indian Ocean nations and small island developing countries. He emphasised the forum as a key driver for the sustainable development of the blue economy.
The Maldives, co-hosting the event, continues to play an active role in regional initiatives promoting sustainable marine development. Vice President Latheef’s participation underscores the nation’s commitment to advancing the blue economy and fostering international partnerships for shared prosperity.
