The 9th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC 2026) was held in Mauritius from 10 to 12 April 2026, gathering representatives from over 30 countries and international and regional organizations. Ambassador Huang Shifang attended the conference and delivered remarks. 

Ambassador Huang stated in her remarks that China and countries in the Indian Ocean enjoy a long-standing friendship. Over the years, China has played a constructive role in promoting inclusive and sustainable development in this region. China stands ready to strengthen solidarity and coordination with countries in this region to build the Indian Ocean into a sea of fairness, prosperity, peace and inclusiveness.

All parties, under the theme of “Collective Stewardship for Indian Ocean Governance”, conducted extensive exchanges on the situation of Middle East as well as on regional security and stability, maritime security and sustainable ocean governance, among other issues.