The Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) recently conducted a Virtual Conference that was organized by the National Investigation Agency of India. The main objective of the conference was to address various challenges related to terrorism in respective countries and share experiences in the prosecution of terrorism cases.
Understanding the Colombo Security Conclave
The CSC was formed in 2011 as a trilateral maritime security grouping, consisting of India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. In the fifth meeting of national security advisers, Mauritius joined as the fourth member. Bangladesh and Seychelles, which attended as observers, have also been invited to join the group.
Goals of the Conclave
The fifth meeting of national security advisers of the CSC identified five key areas for cooperation to enhance regional security, including maritime safety and security, counterterrorism and radicalization, combating trafficking and transnational organized crime, cybersecurity, protection of critical infrastructure and technology, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Significance of the CSC
The CSC is significant because it represents India’s outreach to the Indian Ocean region, emphasizing regional cooperation and shared security objectives. The CSC also aims to limit China’s influence in this strategically important area and decrease China’s footprint in member countries.
Maritime Security: Importance for India
India, with a coastline of nearly 7500 Km along with islands of strategic chokepoints, prioritizes maritime security. Here, the role of the CSC is critical.
SAGAR Vision and QUAD Grouping
The grouping is aligned with India’s vision of “SAGAR: Security and Growth for all in the Region,” and is reflective of India being part of QUAD grouping.
Emerging Sub-Regionalism
The gathering of six Indian Ocean region countries indicates a rise in sub-regionalism on a common maritime and security platform. This development is significant in a broader global context.
Challenges Associated with the Conclave
While the strategic interests of the six countries align in the Indian Ocean Region, an attempt to shape the CSC into an institution to counter China’s influence might meet the same fate as the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC), often criticized as a failed initiative.
The Way Forward
Cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region is immensely required due to escalating security issues and uncertainties. To successfully forge ahead, the CSC must maintain a unified strategic vision and avoid getting caught up in the increasing Chinese influence. India should accept that the region is developing into a global common to avoid conflicts with its neighbors.
UPSC Civil Services Examination’s Previous Year Questions
One question from the 2017 examination asked about the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS). The symposium is a voluntary initiative seeking to increase maritime cooperation among the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region by providing an open and inclusive platform for discussing regionally relevant maritime issues.
