The 9th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC 2026) was organised by the India Foundation in collaboration with the Government of India and the Government of Mauritius from 10–12 April 2026 in Mauritius.

Centred around the theme “Collective Stewardship for Indian Ocean Governance,” IOC 2026 brought together leaders, policymakers, and experts from across the Indian Ocean Region to deliberate on shared responsibilities, cooperative frameworks, and the future of regional governance.

The conference was addressed by ministers, senior officials, and representatives of international organisations, bringing together stakeholders from over 30 countries in the region. It featured a series of plenary and thematic sessions focusing on key issues such as Freedom of Navigation, Maritime Laws and Governance, and Maritime Security.

H.E. Ambassador Sanjiv Ranjan, Secretary-General of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), delivered remarks during a plenary session on 11 April 2026. He highlighted the importance of international cooperation in navigating the complexities of the 21st century within the Indian Ocean, particularly in the pursuit of sustainable development. He also underscored IORA’s collaborative efforts over the past three decades and reiterated its critical role in fostering regional cooperation and advancing sustainable development across the Indian Ocean Region.

During the event, the Secretary-General of IORA also engaged with the media, including WION and the Mauritius Broadcasting Corporation.

The Indian Ocean Conference, which was initiated in 2016 by the India Foundation in association with regional think tanks and institutions, has seen participation from over 30 countries since its inception. Over the past eight years, it has evolved into a flagship forum for countries to engage in dialogue and deliberate on issues of mutual interest and regional significance.