- +94 77 843 4366
- info@ioracoe.org
Latest News
Small-scale and lateral intermittency of oceanic microstructure in the pycnocline
An undercurrent off the east coast of Sri Lanka
Formation of Large-Scale Eddies in the Bay of Bengal during Summer Monsoon
Ocean Turbulence and Mixing Around Sri Lanka and in Adjacent Waters of the Northern Bay of Bengal
Collaborative Observations of Boundary Currents, Water Mass Variability, and Monsoon Response in the Southern Bay of Bengal
Observations of Currents Over the Deep Southern Bay of Bengal With a Little Luck
IORA CoE Website Development Progress Meeting
In collaboration with the Foreign Ministry and Ocean University of Sri Lanka, this meeting reviewed the current progress on the IORA CoE website development project. Key points included updates on design, content integration, and functionality.
IORA Blue Economy Summit
This summit focuses on the opportunities and challenges of developing a sustainable blue economy. Experts from the private sector, governments, and research institutions will share insights on ocean-based industries and policy frameworks.
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IORA DAY 2024
5th March 2024
A gathering of leading marine scientists, government officials, and policymakers to discuss recent advancements in marine biodiversity and sustainable ocean practices in the IORA region.
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IORA Ocean Cleanup Campaign
2nd November 2022
A large-scale collaborative event aimed at removing plastic waste and debris from the Indian Ocean. IORA member states, local communities, NGOs, and environmental organizations will join forces to promote ocean health and raise awareness about marine pollution.
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Welcome to the IORA CoE Sri Lanka
For Ocean Sciences and Environment
The Indian Ocean, surrounded by the world’s highest populations, is crucial for social, political, and individual wellbeing. Its significance compels member states to prioritize Ocean Science, focusing on climate and environmental interactions. This initiative aims to enhance marine scientific research and ocean governance, fostering knowledge and capacity building. It will drive adaptive, data-intensive marine governance, addressing key Ocean Science and Marine Environmental issues in the region.

Marine Scientific Research
We lead innovative marine research in the IORA region, offering technical expertise to member states.

Education and Training
We are committed to promoting education, training, and capacity building in ocean sciences.

Knowledge Exchange
Our platform connects scientists and policymakers for knowledge exchange.

Regional Cooperation
We enhance regional cooperation in IORA by uniting government, private sector, and academia.

Digital Platform
Our digital library platform ensures that all member states and their citizens have easy access to information and resources.

Marine Scientific Research
We lead innovative marine research in the IORA region, offering technical expertise to member states.

Education and Training
We are committed to promoting education, training, and capacity building in ocean sciences.

Knowledge Exchange
Our platform connects scientists and policymakers for knowledge exchange.
Maritime Safety & Security
The Indian Ocean region is a dynamic yet challenging maritime space facing threats such as piracy, terrorism, illegal trafficking, fisheries crimes, ocean pollution, unlawful resource exploitation, and climate change impacts. Ensuring freedom of navigation and overflight, as per UNCLOS, is vital for regional prosperity and security. Addressing these challenges is crucial for maintaining the stability and sustainability of this key global maritime corridor.
Fisheries Management
The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) plays a crucial role in sustainable fisheries management, vital for global food security and supporting millions of livelihoods. Contributing over 13% of global fish production, IORA member states focus on combating overfishing and climate change through collaboration and shared responsibility. Initiatives include seafood safety, fish trade, combating illegal fishing, and supporting small-scale fishers.
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Trade & Investment Facilitation
The Indian Ocean region, historically vital for global trade, continues to thrive thanks to its strategic location and abundant resources. The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) fosters economic growth through initiatives like the Working Group on Trade and Investment (WGTI), which enhances trade policies, improves connectivity, and supports SMEs.
By promoting regional cooperation, reducing trade barriers, and streamlining business operations, IORA ensures sustainable economic development and unlocks the region’s immense potential.
IORA Priority Areas
Disaster Risk Management
IORA’s Disaster Risk Management (DRM) involves governments, NGOs, and the private sector to build capacities for disaster anticipation, response, and recovery. Aligning with the Sendai Framework, IORA emphasizes regional cooperation and a multi-hazard approach. Despite the Indian Ocean Region’s disaster vulnerability, it has top-tier disaster management institutes.
The 2019 IORA Action Plan established the Working Group on DRM (WGDRM) to enhance cooperation and resilience, now chaired by the French Republic. Key partnerships, like with the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), further bolster these efforts.
Tourism & Cultural Exchanges
The Indian Ocean, connecting Asia, Africa, Australia, and Antarctica, fosters community-based and eco-tourism while promoting cultural heritage. The IORA Core Group on Tourism (CGT) enhances regional cooperation and sustainable tourism through comprehensive strategies and stakeholder collaboration. Key initiatives include improving travel processes, showcasing attractions, and preserving cultural and natural heritage. The Republic of Kenya, as the current Chair since January 2024, continues the work started by Mauritius to drive sustainable tourism development and regional growth.
Academic, Science & Technology
The Indian Ocean Region excels in academics, science, and technology. IORA’s Action Plan (2022-2026) enhances this through the Indian Ocean Rim Academic Group (IORAG) and the Working Group on Science, Technology, and Innovation (WGSTI). These groups promote research, capacity building, and regional cooperation, leveraging member states’ strengths for a collaborative and innovative future.
Contact us
Stay Connected with Us
For inquiries, collaborations, or more information about our initiatives, please reach out to us. We are here to support your engagement with the IORA Center of Excellence on Ocean Sciences and Environment.
info@ioracoe.org
Contact Number
+94 77 843 4366
Address
The Ocean University of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka