The 5th Colombo Security Conclave begins today in Maldives. The two-day conclave is attended by National Security Advisors (NSAs) and representatives from six participating nations – India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Mauritius, Bangladesh and Seychelles.
The Colombo Security Conclave was founded as a trilateral security framework between India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives with four pillars of security cooperation, covering marine safety and security, human trafficking, counter-terrorism, and cyber security.
Earlier this year, India had conducted the first “Colombo Security Conclave Virtual Workshop” aimed at addressing key challenges in the field of cyber security, dark web and digital forensics. Conducted from 10-11 January, the two-day virtual workshop was hosted by the Indian National Security Council Secretariat and was attended by delegates from Sri Lanka, Maldives, India, Seychelles, Bangladesh and Mauritius.
In the opening remarks, Maldives’ Minster of Defence, Mariya Didi spoke on the nation’s commitment towards peace, security and stability in the region. Welcoming Mauritius as the newest member state to the conclave, she expressed hope that the observer states would join the conclave soon.
The 5th Edition of Colombo Security Conclave begins in #Maldives. In her opening remarks, Min. @MariyaDidi reiterated HEP @ibusolih's commitment to regional peace+security & welcomed #Mauritius as newest CSC Member.
Eng News:https://t.co/NF7HFAAYbK
Dhi:https://t.co/ZgtUGDrHv7 pic.twitter.com/NnoIhIfVnH
— Ministry of Defence (@MoDmv) March 9, 2022
With Mauritius as the newest member of the conclave, the Colombo Security Conclave has now 4 member states, namely – India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Mauritius.
The National Security Advisor of India, Shri Ajit Doval, spoke on regional security and highlighted issues such as coastal security, narco-trafficking, human trafficking, piracy, counterterrorism and violent extremism in the region.
In Maldives at Colombo security conclave, NSA Ajit Doval highlights common security challenges, India, Maldives, Sri Lanka face. Says, "our coast are vulnerable and numerous threats exists…" pic.twitter.com/aXcrtCEY9J
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) March 9, 2022