The Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, in collaboration with the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA), jointly hosted the 10th Indian Ocean Dialogue (IOD), a track 1.5 flagship initiative of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), from 07 to 08 May 2026 in New Delhi, India. The Dialogue, centered around the theme “Indian Ocean Region in a Transforming world”, comprised six sessions focusing on: Maritime Safety and Security, Blue Economy, Disaster Risk Management, Economic Trade and Investment, Climate Change, Science and Technology Development and Women Empowerment.
The IOD 2026 featured speakers from various disciplines, including senior government officials, policy makers, diplomats, defense officials, academics, and Think Tanks from IORA Member States and Dialogue Partners of IORA.
In his welcome remarks, H. E. Amb N.J. Gangte, Acting Director General, ICWA, underscored the significance of the Indian Ocean Dialogue as a flagship platform for fostering inclusive, Rules-based International Order, highlighting India’s commitment, under its IORA Chairship, to a safe, secure and stable maritime domain guided by the MAHASAGAR vision and strengthened through partnership, multilateralism, and sustainable development.
H.E. Amb Sanjiv Ranjan, the Secretary-General of IORA, underscored that the ongoing transformations in the Indian Ocean region necessitate strengthened collective action, with Member States working together to promote cooperation, uphold international law, and ensure a secure, stable and prosperous region.
H. E. Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India in the keynote address underscored that in an increasingly uncertain and interconnected global environment, the Indian Ocean region requires strengthened collective action, with IORA serving as a vital platform to promote cooperation, uphold international law, and advance a secure, stable, and resilient maritime order.
In his Special Address, H.E. Mr. Dhananjay Ramful, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration, and International Trade, Republic of Mauritius, called for enhanced collective action, with IORA serving as a key platform to advance peace, maritime security, and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean Region.
Further, H.E. Mr. Waleed Mohammed Al-Qadimi, Hon'ble Minister of State, Republic of Yemen, highlighted Yemen’s commitment to the security and stability of the Indian Ocean, stressing the need for collective action to protect international shipping lanes.
Press Release of the 10th Indian Ocean Dialogue
