Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath Advocates for Regional Collaboration in Muscat
Muscat, Oman – Vijitha Herath, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka, championed enhanced maritime cooperation within the Indian Ocean region at the 8th Indian Ocean Conference in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. Minister Herath addressed the conference, outlining Sri Lanka’s dedication to fostering regional maritime affairs through collaboration, sustainability, and shared prosperity.
During the plenary session, Minister Herath highlighted the Indian Ocean’s crucial strategic role as a major artery for global trade connecting East and West. The “Voyage of New Horizons of Maritime Partnership” initiative was presented to underscore Sri Lanka’s commitment to advancing maritime cooperation and development standards throughout the region.
Acknowledging the diverse and complex challenges within the maritime sphere, Minister Herath emphasised the necessity of a “collective response”. The address called for enhanced inter-state and inter-agency networks to build mutual trust, facilitate the exchange of best practices, and coordinate effective responses to shared maritime security concerns. It was stated that, “Enhanced information sharing and communication channels can significantly improve our ability to detect, deter, and respond to maritime threats.”
In his capacity as the current chair of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), Minister Herath reiterated the importance of strong partnerships with regional and international entities. Sri Lanka, he affirmed, is committed to “engage with all stakeholders within and beyond the Indian Ocean Region on initiatives that promote peace, security, and stability.” This commitment includes active participation in joint efforts designed to ensure maritime security, environmental sustainability, and broad-based economic prosperity across the Indian Ocean.
Further, Minister Herath reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s dedication to the BBNJ Agreement, which focuses on the conservation of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. Recognising the Indian Ocean’s dual strategic and ecological significance, the agreement was described as vital for guaranteeing equitable access to marine resources and for reinforcing regional collaboration on sustainable ocean governance. Minister Herath conveyed Sri Lanka’s intention to utilise this framework to strengthen capacity-building, research, and technology transfer, thereby reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding the high seas for future generations.
The address concluded by restating Sri Lanka’s readiness to work in concert with all stakeholders to achieve a secure, stable, sustainable, and prosperous Indian Ocean Region for the common good. Minister Herath affirmed, “In conclusion, I want to reiterate that Sri Lanka stands ready to collaborate with all stakeholders in working towards realising the vision of a secure, stable, sustainable, and prosperous Indian Ocean Region for the benefit of all.”
