What You Need to Know
At the Indian Ocean Sustainability Forum, Minister Dr. Arvin Boolell stressed the importance of regional collaboration among Indian Ocean nations to unlock growth opportunities. He highlighted Mauritius and Seychelles’ shared goal of becoming major ocean states and the need for reliable partnerships to address blue economy challenges, including illegal fishing and climate impacts.
Africa-Press – Mauritius. Collaborative partnerships and clustering by Nations of the Indian Ocean region, was highlighted as a key powerhouse to harness growth opportunities and maximise development potentials, by the Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries, Dr Arvin Boolell.
He was speaking yesterday at the Indian Ocean Sustainability Forum held in the margins of the 9th Indian Ocean Conference 2026,in Balaclava.
Minister Boolell highlighted the shared ambition of Mauritius and Seychelles to transition into big ocean states, leveraging their vast Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf. He underlined that achieving this requires like-minded, reliable partners to facilitate knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and the resources necessary for effective maritime surveillance and control.
Dr Boolell also emphasised that this significant support bolsters Mauritius’ efforts to tackle blue economy challenges, including Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated fishing, plastic pollution, and climate-related impacts on marine ecosystems.
Furthermore, he recognised Mauritius’ steadfast partnership with India in maritime cooperation, capacity building, surveillance, and strategic infrastructure.
Indian investors were also invited to capitalise on upcoming port developments, emphasising Mauritius’ strategic position amid shifting global dynamics.
The Indian Ocean region has long been a focal point for maritime trade and ecological diversity. With nations like Mauritius and Seychelles possessing vast Exclusive Economic Zones, there is a growing emphasis on sustainable development and cooperation to address shared challenges. The Indian Ocean Sustainability Forum aims to foster partnerships that enhance resource management and environmental protection, crucial for the region’s future prosperity. As global dynamics shift, the role of these nations in promoting sustainable practices becomes increasingly vital.
