Mauritius to Host the 20th Annual Meeting of the Indian Ocean Global Ocean Observing System (IOGOOS) from May 5-9, 2025
Mauritius will host the 20th Annual Meeting of the Indian Ocean Global Ocean Observing System (IOGOOS) from May 5-9, 2025. This event presents a unique opportunity for Mauritius to assess the latest advancements in marine research in the Indian Ocean region, particularly concerning the observation and monitoring of marine ecosystems. The initiative addresses a gap in sharing ocean observation systems.
« This will promote Mauritius’ active participation in the development and optimization of regional ocean observation systems, thus contributing to the improvement of hydrographic, meteorological, and climate data, » noted a former researcher from the Indian Ocean Commission. According to him, it will mainly allow Mauritius to benefit from capacity-building initiatives offered by the UNESCO Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission and the second International Expedition on the Indian Ocean, aiming to train local experts in oceanography, marine modeling, and marine resource management.
Another goal is to position Mauritius at the forefront of marine scientific research, while facilitating regional integration and cooperation among Indian Ocean coastal states in the fields of scientific innovation, ecosystem protection, and maritime security. The Cabinet of Ministers has fully endorsed the project, which aligns with the ambitions of boosting the blue economy.
Earlier in the week, an editorial from L’Express advocated for the « implementation of such a strategy to be based on a foundation of regional collaboration. Our neighbors – Madagascar, Comoros, Seychelles – share with us this generous but vulnerable ocean. Yet, most countries in our region lack the necessary resources to develop joint action plans. » It was added that cooperation with international partners such as India, the United States, or the European Union could be a powerful lever to address these gaps. « The development of a maritime strategy must involve all relevant stakeholders: local communities, scientists, industry leaders, NGOs, and policymakers. This participatory approach is key to balancing economic, environmental, social, and security challenges. Once adopted, this strategy should not be static but continuously adapted to the evolving challenges of our time. »
Source: L’express
