GIS – 24 April 2025: Strengthening unity among Indian Ocean States, reducing reliance on imports through intra-regional trade, using marine resources for growth and jobs in a sustainable manner, combating illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and piracy as well as amplifying the voices of vulnerable Island Nations were at the core of Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam’s remarks today in Antananarivo in Madagascar.
He was speaking at the opening ceremony of the 5th Summit of the Heads of State and Government of the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC). The Summit’s theme is ‘Sécurité et souveraineté alimentaires pour le développement du marché de l’Indianocéanie’.
Prime Minister Ramgoolam pointed out that this Summit offers an opportunity to renew political and strategic commitment to cooperate, work together and jointly overcome common challenges. According to him the status quo, in an ever-changing ecosystem, is untenable and will only lead Island States into the abyss of obsolescence.
He emphasised that Member States have a duty to steer the IOC towards greater resilience and deeper regional integration. “We must be even more ambitious and think further ahead by strengthening partnerships among Governments, international organisations, civil society, and the private sector. Only an integrated and collaborative approach will allow us to achieve our goals”, he said.
The Prime Minister moreover deplored that IOC Member States remain heavily dependent on importing the majority of their food products. As such, he urged the IOC to actively support the emergence of a regional space for enhanced economic and commercial exchanges, building on past studies and initiatives, particularly in air and maritime connectivity.
Dr Ramgoolam also called for concerted actions with regard to food security and sovereignty, trade under tariff threats, the post-climate change era, the fight against drugs in our region, and our inherent vulnerability are concerned.
“The Republic of Mauritius is fully committed to contributing to any collective effort to revitalise regional cooperation and advance our shared initiatives. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient, and more prosperous regional space”, he concluded.
In the margin of the summit meeting the Prime Minister handed over to the Malagasy authorities 45 gold bars, representing a total weight of 25.5 kilos, which the Mauritius Customs officers seized in 2019.
Government Information Service, Prime Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius. Email: gis@govmu.org Website: https://gis.govmu.org Mobile App: Search Gov