VICTORIA, Seychelles, Internal Affairs Minister Errol Fonseka has outlined the importance of the blue economy as a powerful instrument and sustainable model to address challenges. He made this remark when addressing the 7th Indian Ocean Conference as a speaker on the panel discussing the theme ‘Our Blue Future’. The yearly conference from February 9 to 10, 2024 in Perth, Australia, was held under the theme ‘Towards a Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean’.
The conference brought together delegations led by ministers from over 22 countries, with senior officials from 49 countries and six multilateral organisations. It also saw the participation of 700 social and corporate leaders, policy practitioners, scholars, professionals, and media personnel from 70 countries. The wide range of participants underscored the importance attached to the Indian Ocean region.
The programme comprised plenary sessions with speakers discussing various issues focusing on maritime security, sustainability and the blue economy. Minister Fonseka emphasised on the intersection of the blue economy and maritime security, which is fundamental for regional prosperity. His address resonated with many delegates who are grappling with similar challenges in their own countries.
In his address during the conference, Professor Velayoudom Marimoutou touched on the importance of the two regional centres, namely the Regional Maritime Information Fusion Centre (RMIFC) based in Madagascar and the Regional Centre for Operational Coordination (RCOC) based in Seychelles. This in terms of joint surveillance missions, crucial to the security of South East Indian Ocean. He also outlined how these centres serve as platforms for cooperation across the wider Indian Ocean rim.
He also made the following pledge as he prepares to hand over the leadership of IOC to Seychelles in May 2024. The Minister also visited the Australian Border Force ports and airport facilities, and discussed topics of border control and security. Minister Fonseka was accompanied by Captain Gerald Wong, the Seychelles officials on this important visit.
