Hon. Dr. Harsha de Silva, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, attended the 15th Meeting of the Council of Ministers of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), which was held in 23rd October in Padang, Indonesia.
The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) is the only regional organization consisting coastal nations bordering the Indian Ocean and seven dialogue partners consisting of the world’s leading economies. IORA performs as a regional forum for strengthening economic, socio-cultural and technological cooperation among the member states through mutual cooperation. Maritime Safety & Security, Trade & Investment Facilitation, Fisheries and Aquaculture Management, Academic, Science & Technology Cooperation and Tourism & cultural Exchanges are IORA’s priority areas towards reaching economic prosperity in the region.
The Deputy Minister in his statement to the Council highlighted the importance of regional cooperation amongst the Indian Ocean Rim countries to address the challenges and exploit the benefits for IORA community and pledged Sri Lanka’s continued support and commitment towards IORA’s objectives and work plan.
The Dialogue Partners of IORA namely China, Japan, Egypt, France, USA, UK and Germany assured IORA of their enhanced engagement with the institution to support its ongoing and future programmes.
On the sidelines of the Council Meeting Deputy Minister held several discussions with the Foreign Ministers of Australia, Mauritius, South Africa and also with the Deputy or State Ministers from India and Singapore among others.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Colombo
24 October 2015
