The two day gathering is the first IORA ministerial blue economy co-operation conference to be arranged by the Association and ties in with at least four of the objectives of South Africa’s blue economy initiative, part of government’s Operation Phakisa.

Fisheries and aquaculture, renewable ocean energy, seaports and shipping and seabed exploration and minerals are all under the spotlight during the two day conference.

The South Africa delegation is being led by Deputy International Relations and Co-operation (DIRCO) Minister Nomaindiya Mfeketo and is the first to be hosted by IORA since the 20 member strong Association prioritised the blue economy at its ministerial meeting held in Perth last year.

Available: http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=40540;south-african-delegation-attends-first-ever-iora-blue-economy-conference&catid=51;Sea&Itemid=106