7th Indian Ocean Dialogue (IOD)

Fostering a New Era of Cooperation in the Indian Ocean from 2 – 3 February 2021

IORA Member States will gather virtually to debate and shape the role of

‘Fostering a New Era of Cooperation in the Indian Ocean’ during the 7^th Indian Ocean Dialogue being held by the United Arab Emirates on 2 – 3 February 2021.

The Indian Ocean Dialogue (IOD) is a flagship initiative of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), with its origins in the 13th Council of Ministers meeting, held in November 2013 in Perth, Australia. Today, the IOD is established in its role as a stand-alone Track 1.5 discussion, encouraging an open and free flowing dialogue by key representatives of IORA Member States such as scholars, experts, analysts, and policy makers from governments, think tanks and civil societies on a number of crucial strategic issues of the Indian Ocean Region.

The 7^th Edition of the IOD presents a unique forum to consider the opportunities and challenges emerging in a post-COVID world. Multilateral diplomacy and cooperation have proven critical in addressing the complex issues presented by the global pandemic, but will this be an enduring feature of the Indian Ocean’s regional architecture?

Given the potential for a new era of inclusive cooperation, the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) will only grow in importance as it takes advantage of new opportunities for collaboration and strengthens existing initiatives. By bringing together scholars, experts, policymakers, think tanks and civil society organizations from IORA Member States and Dialogue Partners, the IOD seeks to explore areas where IORA can contribute to shaping a peaceful and prosperous future for the Indian Ocean.

The forthcoming Dialogue will focus on the following themes:

• Enhancing Regional Economic and Trade Cooperation
• Exploring Opportunities for Joint Maritime Security
• Paths to Inclusive Public Health and Sustainable Development
• Future Trends Shaping Cooperation in the Indian Ocean

Follow the conversation at @IORAofficial #IORA