The National Investigation Agency of India hosted the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) Virtual Conference, where participants from different countries came together to talk about the issues they face with terrorism. They shared their experiences in handling terrorism cases, discussed strategies to deal with foreign fighters, and talked about ways to counter the misuse of the internet and social media.
About Colombo Security Conclave
- The Colombo Security Conclave is a regional security grouping.
- It was initially formed in 2011 as a trilateral Indian Ocean maritime security grouping of India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
- It was revived again in 2021. The Colombo Security Conclave has since expanded both its membership as well as scope.
- Colombo Security Conclave envisages sharing intelligence and collaborating on the security aspects of marine security, human trafficking, counter-terrorism, and cyber security.
- The fifth edition saw the induction of Mauritius as a new member and the scope of the conclave has been expanded to include humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Significance
In light of the current global circumstances, the gathering that focuses on working together for military and security purposes becomes increasingly important in the region.
- Maritime Security – The conclave conducts “CSC Focused Operation” which plays a key role in keeping the Indian Ocean safe and secure for commercial shipping, international trade and conduct of legitimate maritime activities.
- Exchange of Information – it further improves the existing harmony in the region through timely exchange of information.
- Cooperation between Agencies – the conclave will aid in greater understanding and interoperability between the security agencies.
- Cybersecurity – The grouping helps in addressing key challenges such as Deep Web, Dark Net, Digital Forensics, Cyber Threat intelligence; and Defensive Operations in Cyber Domain.
- Tackling Environmental Hazards – Recent incidents like that of MV Xpress Pearl, MT New Diamond, and MV Wakashio caused wide-scale marine pollution in the Indian Ocean. The conclave also focuses its attention in this regard.
Way Forward
- Need for Regional Cooperation: There is an immense need for cooperation in the IOR given the rising number of security issues and uncertainties.
- The CSC is more likely to succeed if it maintains a common strategic vision and does not get bogged down by the growing Chinese influence in the region.
- To avoid points of contention with its Neighbours, India should start to accept that the IOR is developing into a global common.
Read Also: All About : Internal Security in India
