UNCTAD's 60th anniversary celebration in Geneva brought global leaders together to redefine trade and development strategies. The IOI's representatives at this forum reaffirmed the institute's commitment to an equitable global economy and renewed multilateralism. Additionally, a webinar on June 20, featuring Dr Behnam, focused on the role of cities in a sustainable Ocean economy, addressing coastal sustainability challenges and the importance of Ocean literacy.

Topics of Marine Leisure Management, Sea Lane Security, and labour issues in the global fishing industry are of fundamental interest in the IOI’s global Ocean Governance syllabi and Blue Economy considerations. IOI Ocean Academy Director Azmath Jaleel gave important presentations on these topics and represented the IOI in events on Marine and Maritime issues.

During a ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Malta, the IOI Honorary President Dr Awni Behnam – via video message – conveyed to HE George Vella, President of Malta, the IOI’s recognition and appreciation for hosting the IOI HQ over the first fifty years of its existence.