KATHMANDU | 9 April 2026
Hon. Minister for Foreign Affairs of Nepal, Mr. Shisir Khanal, is leaving today for Port Louis, Republic of Mauritius, to address the 9th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) 2026. The visit follows an invitation from H.E. Minister of External Affairs of India, Dr. S. Jaishankar.
Conference Details:
- Dates: 10 to 12 April 2026
- Organizers: India Foundation in association with the Government of Mauritius
- Theme: "Collective Stewardship for Indian Ocean Governance"
Nepal's National Statement and Objectives
During the Conference, the Hon. Foreign Minister will deliver Nepal's national statement, articulating the country's perspectives on the following key areas:
- Indian Ocean Governance: Nepal’s strategic outlook on regional maritime management.
- Mountain-Ocean Nexus: Highlighting the critical ecological link between the Himalayas and the Indian Ocean.
- Maritime Connectivity: Emphasizing the importance of sea access for the economic development of land-linked nations.
In addition to the formal sessions, the Hon. Foreign Minister is scheduled to hold a series of high-level meetings with his counterparts on the margins of the Conference to discuss bilateral and regional cooperation.
Return Schedule: The Hon. Minister is scheduled to conclude his visit and return to Nepal on 13 April 2026.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Government of Nepal, Kathmandu
