LONDON: The Omani Foreign Ministry will host the 18th Indian Ocean Conference on Feb. 16 to discuss maritime security and trade issues.

The two-day conference will be held under the theme “Voyage to New Horizons of Maritime Partnership,” the ministry said, highlighting Muscat’s commitment to enhancing maritime security and sustainable freight shipping, as well as developing international cooperation.

Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al-Busaidi said that the conference is a key platform for discussing the sea economy and ocean governance.

The event is expected to attract people from more than 60 countries to discuss maritime partnerships, including trade links, maritime security, freedom of navigation, and the use of modern technology to enhance port security and control.

It aims to improve regional cooperation and tackle the challenges confronting the Indian Ocean region, the Oman News Agency reported.