High level conference on blue economy

Needless to say, there will be projections on what is possible, provided the spirit of cooperation among member countries of IORA exists, to take it from the drawing table into implementation. If we are truly looking at the promotion of sustainable and inclusive growth that could open up employment opportunities, then it is time we let the experts take the lead. They need to formulate and undertake a feasibility study that will pinpoint precisely what economic opportunities exist for member nations. Then the respective governments can work on that study to launch various projects in the areas of sustainable fisheries and exploiting resources from the seabed, and enhancing maritime logistics that will open up opportunities in coastal shipping and connectivity. It is time we laid the foundations for future interventions to get the 22 member states and nine dialogue partners, moving on a trajectory of growth that will benefit all.