Foreign Minister, Dr Abdulla Khaleel, has emphasised the necessity for unified regional efforts to address pressing challenges in the Indian Ocean region. Speaking at the 24th Council of Ministers Meeting of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), held virtually on 21 May 2025, Dr Khaleel highlighted issues such as maritime security threats, climate change, and illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
The meeting, hosted by Sri Lanka under the theme “Sustainable Indian Ocean for Future Generations,” brought together ministers and senior officials from IORA’s 23 Member States and 12 Dialogue Partners. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to the goals and principles enshrined in the IORA Charter.
In his statement, Dr Khaleel reiterated Maldives’ dedication to IORA’s vision of regional cooperation. He called for coordinated action to tackle shared challenges, emphasising the importance of collective regional efforts in ensuring maritime security, combating climate change, and addressing IUU fishing.
The Council adopted the Colombo Communiqué, highlighting progress achieved since the previous meeting in October 2023. Key outcomes included the adoption of IORA Guidelines on IUU Fishing and the Climate Agenda, both significant steps towards promoting environmental sustainability in the region.
Established in 1997, IORA is an inter-governmental organisation aimed at fostering regional cooperation and sustainable development among Indian Ocean countries. The Maldives joined IORA as its 22nd Member State on 8 November 2019.
Sri Lanka, serving as the current Chair of IORA for the 2023–2025 period, has led several initiatives under the theme “Strengthening Regional Architecture: Reinforcing Indian Ocean Identity.” These include the commemoration of IORA Day 2024, engaging over 800 students, and the inaugural IORA Business Conclave in Colombo, which brought together more than 200 regional business leaders.
The 24th Council of Ministers Meeting was preceded by the 27th Meeting of the Committee of Senior Officials, held virtually from 19–20 May 2025.
