Nice, France: Union Minister of Earth Sciences (Independent Charge), Dr. Jitendra Singh, held a key bilateral meeting today with Vidar Helgesen, UNESCO emissary and Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC), with a shared focus on strengthening international cooperation for ocean conservation.
Dr. Singh, who is leading the Indian delegation to the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, emphasized India’s commitment to advancing global ocean observation systems through satellite-based technologies and in-situ monitoring. The five-day high-level conference, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica from June 9 to 13, aims to accelerate global progress on Sustainable Development Goal 14: conserving and sustainably using the oceans and marine resources.
“Enhancing ocean observation capabilities is not only essential for improved climate forecasting and monsoon prediction but also pivotal for realizing the potential of the blue economy,” Dr. Singh stated during the discussion. He underlined India’s leadership in deepening scientific understanding of the Indian Ocean and its role in climate-related studies.
Helgesen welcomed India’s growing role in global ocean governance and encouraged greater participation in the IOC’s coordination efforts, including marine data sharing, regional observation programmes, and delivery of ocean services. The meeting underscored the urgency of international collaboration to address critical issues like rising sea levels, marine pollution, and the rapid decline of biodiversity.
India’s engagement at UNOC3 comes as coastal nations across the globe are increasingly recognizing the strategic and ecological importance of oceans. With its long coastline and monsoon-dependent agriculture, India is positioning itself as a vital contributor to marine science and ocean diplomacy, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
Dr. Jitendra Singh is expected to take part in a series of multilateral engagements throughout the week, highlighting India’s priorities in marine research, capacity building, and ensuring equitable access to ocean knowledge and technology.
