The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) of the Republic of South Africa recently hosted a two-day event celebrating IORA Day 2024. This event, held at the University of South Africa (Pretoria) and the University of Kwazulu-Natal (Durban) from 7-8 March 2024, was organized under the theme “Ensuring a sustainable Indian Ocean for the Future Generations: Our Ocean Our Life,” a theme proposed by the Government of Sri Lanka, chair of the Indian Ocean Rim Association.
Participating in this significant occasion was the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Pretoria, at the invitation of DIRCO. The collaboration between these entities underscores the shared commitment to fostering regional cooperation and sustainable development within the Indian Ocean region.
The keynote address was delivered by Ambassador-at-large; Asia and BRICS at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Anil Shooklal. Furthermore, the event featured video messages from IORA Secretary General Ambassador Salman Al Farisi and South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr. GNM Pandor. These contributions added depth and perspective to the discussions surrounding the theme of ensuring a sustainable future for the Indian Ocean.
Welcoming the esteemed guests to the first-day event on 07 March 2024 was Prof. Puleng LenkaBule, the Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of South Africa (UNISA). In her remarks, Prof. LenkaBule emphasized the illustrious alumni of UNISA, including former Presidents of South Africa Nelson Mandela, Thabo Mbeki, and the current President Cyril Ramaphosa. This recognition of UNISA’s influential graduates underscored the institution’s significant contributions to South Africa’s leadership and development.
The second-day event, held on 08 March 2024 at the University of Kwazulu-Natal (UKZN), was similarly distinguished. Prof. Michael Kidd, Acting Dean of the School of Law at UKZN, extended a warm welcome to the guests. His acknowledgment of the importance of the event in fostering dialogue and collaboration among academics, diplomats, and government officials further emphasized the significance of the occasion.
In addition to dignitaries and academics, the event also saw the participation of several Sri Lankan university students studying in South Africa. This inclusion was made at the request of the Sri Lankan High Commission, reflecting the commitment to engage future generations in the work of the Indian Ocean Rim Association. The presence of these students added a valuable perspective and energy to the discussions, ensuring a multi-faceted exchange of ideas and experiences.
Throughout both events, participants engaged in fruitful discussions on topics ranging from environmental sustainability to economic cooperation within the Indian Ocean region. The diverse range of perspectives represented underscored the complex challenges and opportunities facing the region, as well as the importance of collaborative efforts to address them effectively.
Overall, the celebration of IORA Day 2024 in South Africa served as a testament to the enduring commitment of member states to regional cooperation and sustainable development. By bringing together stakeholders from government, academia, and civil society, the event provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration, laying the groundwork for future initiatives aimed at ensuring a prosperous and sustainable future for the Indian Ocean and its inhabitants.
