2nd webinar organized under the IORA COE webinar series

The second webinar organized under the IORA COE webinar series on “Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing: Regulations and Practices” was successfully completed.

22nd January 2026

2nd Stakeholder Consultation Meeting of IORACOE

The Second Stakeholder Consultation Workshop of the IORA Centre of Excellence (IORA COE) was successfully conducted on 19 January 2026 at the Main Conference Hall of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The workshop saw active and meaningful engagement from key stakeholders representing the marine and maritime sectors. The discussions were highly constructive, and the valuable insights and recommendations shared by participants will play a crucial role in shaping and navigating the future scope and strategic direction of the IORA COE.

19th January 2026

The IORA Centre of Excellence (IORA COE) Steering Committee Meeting

which was the final meeting of the year 2025, was held on 29 December 2025 at the premises of the Ocean University of Sri Lanka with the participation of Executive Committee members. During the meeting, the importance of initiating a webinar series focusing on emerging and high-priority topics related to ocean affairs was discussed. In addition, it was decided to organize stakeholder meetings to gather views and inputs from relevant stakeholders. These stakeholder meetings are planned to be held at the premises of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

29th December 2025

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.

The first webinar of the IORA-COE

27th August 2025

The speech was delivered by eminent proffer Charitha Pattiaratchi, Professor of Coastal Oceanography, University of Western Australia who shared valuable insights into the pressing environmental issues facing the Indian Ocean region. The session drew wide interest and provided an excellent platform for sharing knowledge and expertise in the field of Oceanography.

Marine Environmental Challenges For The Unique Indian Ocean

27th August 2025

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.

Sri Lankan scientist wins People’s Choice Award

2025 Premier’s Science Awards in Western Australia

Sri Lankan scientist Professor Charitha Pattiarachchi has been named the People’s Choice Winner at the 2025 Premier’s Science Awards in Western Australia.