High-profile speakers to lead IORA Business Conclave 2024

The IORA Business Conclave organised by The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Sri Lanka on 28th and 29th May, will feature high-profile speakers leading the conversation on advancing trade and investment, SME development, and the Blue Economy in the Indian Ocean Rim Association. 

Conducted under the theme “Sustaining Growth – Bridging Horizons,” the Chief Guest will be Minister for Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry, and Secretary General of the Global Alliance for a Sustainable Planet USA Satya Tripathi will deliver the Keynote Address. 

Regarding the event’s significance, Tripathi said, “The convergence of global crises has derailed efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities, including those in the Indian Ocean region. 

Increasing climate disasters and severe food insecurity are putting lives at risk. Sustainable finance is crucial for developing countries, especially island nations, to tackle these challenges head-on. Innovative financial approaches and private sector leadership are essential for a sustainable future anchored in climate justice and inclusive growth for all.”
The event will also feature leading experts in trade, development and sustainability.  Country Director for Sri Lanka and Maldives at the International Labour Organization (ILO), Joni Simpson will present on SME Development & Opportunities for Women Economic Development Across the Indian Ocean Rim. 

Climate and Blue Finance Consultant, Financial Institutions Group at International Finance Corporation (IFC), Jose Gamito Pires, will address the Blue Economy in the IORA Region. Managing Director and Head of Commercial Banking for The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited in India, Ajay Sharma, will speak on Advancing Trade, Commerce and Investment in the Indian Ocean Rim Region.

The Conclave presents incomparable trade, investment, and business opportunities across the Indian Ocean Rim. With representation from IORA’s 23 Member States and 12 Dialogue Partners, entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders from diverse sectors and economies will converge to forge alliances and capitalise on emerging trends. 

The Conclave will feature a multifaceted agenda, including strategic networking receptions, B-2-B meetings, plenary sessions, and several sector-focused breakout sessions. These sessions will offer insights into disruptive technologies, sustainable practices, and the future of commerce across the Indian Ocean Rim.

Strategic Partners: The Australian Government, Asian Development Bank, Board of Investment of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, Sri Lanka Export Development Board, Sustainable Development Council of Sri Lanka, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), International Labour Organization Country Office for Sri Lanka and The Maldives, Hayleys Advantis, VISA – Digital Payments. Bronze Sponsors: Akbar Brothers, Zam Gems and Haycarb. Official Partners: Airline - SriLankan Airlines, Business Media – Echelon, EconomyNext, Communication – Lanka Communication Services (Pvt) Ltd., Hospitality - Shangri-La Hotel Colombo, HSBC – Banking, IT – E-W Information Systems Ltd., Travel – Jetwing Travels. Thought Leadership - International Finance Corporation.