Why in news?
The seventh National Security Adviser‑level meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) was held in New Delhi. Representatives discussed regional security challenges and welcomed Bangladesh as a new member.
Background
The CSC is a regional group that brings together national security advisers and their deputies from countries around the Indian Ocean. It evolved out of a trilateral maritime security dialogue launched in 2011 by India, Maldives and Sri Lanka. After a hiatus due to political changes in the Maldives, the forum was revived and rebranded as the Colombo Security Conclave in 2020.
Membership and evolution
- Founding members: India, Maldives and Sri Lanka participated in the original trilateral maritime security talks. When the CSC was formed, these countries continued as core members.
- Expansion: Mauritius joined the conclave in 2022, recognising the importance of cooperative maritime security. Bangladesh became a full member in 2024, and Seychelles moved from observer to member status thereafter. The latest meeting hinted at broader participation from other Indian Ocean states in the future.
Objectives and cooperation pillars
- Maritime safety and security: Enhance coordination in patrolling sea lanes, combating piracy and safeguarding shipping lanes from accidents and environmental threats.
- Counter‑terrorism and radicalisation: Share intelligence and best practices to prevent the spread of extremist ideologies and disrupt financing networks.
- Trafficking and organised crime: Tackle trafficking in humans, narcotics and arms, and counter other transnational organised crimes.
- Cyber‑security and critical infrastructure protection: Develop joint protocols to protect digital networks and infrastructure from cyberattacks.
- Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief: Coordinate responses to natural disasters such as cyclones and tsunamis, including joint exercises and information sharing.
Recent meeting highlights
- The New Delhi meeting stressed the need for an open, inclusive maritime domain and underscored cooperation under the five established pillars.
- Participants endorsed the roadmap for 2023‑24 and signed a charter and memorandum of understanding to set up a permanent secretariat in Colombo.
- Bangladesh’s full membership was formalised, reflecting the country’s growing role in regional security.
Significance
- The CSC strengthens the collective ability of Indian Ocean countries to address shared security challenges without creating exclusive blocs.
- India’s leadership in the conclave reinforces its role as a net security provider in the region and promotes cooperation rather than competition.
- Enhanced coordination helps member countries respond faster to emergencies, protect trade routes and maintain stability.
Source: Economic Times, News On Air
