Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali has stressed the need for sustainable use of sea resources for prosperity and food security.

He was speaking for the country at the Ministerial session of the 1st IORA Ministerial Blue Economy Conference held at Port Louise of Mauritius yesterday, said a foreign ministry press release.

He stated that future economic prosperity and food security are inextricably linked to sustainable use of sea resources.

The minister hoped that the 1st IORA Ministerial Blue Economy Conference will create an ideal platform for exchanging knowledge and data, information and technological know-how on fisheries and aqua culture, shipping and maritime transportation, renewable ocean energy and seabed resources.

"Such conferences will help IORA countries in building more stable, secure and prosperous Indian Ocean Rim region fostering maritime cooperation and closer ties, ensuring progress and sustainable development of the people among the Indian Ocean Rim countries," he added.

Earlier he also attended the Ministerial retreat and a session to finalise the Blue Economy declaration by all member states.

Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali met President of Mauritius Ameenah Gurib-Fakim in the State House, Port Louis on Wednesday during his two-day visit to the country.

The two also discussed about further strengthening bilateral relations between their countries.

The minister also discussed with the President about the contribution of Bangladesh workforce in Mauritius numbering now at 22,000.

Today the minister will conclude his tour to Mauritius after holding a bilateral meeting with Premdut Koonjoo, Minister of Ocean Economy, Marine Resources, Fisheries, Shipping and Outer Islands.