The 7th National Security Adviser (NSA)-level meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) was recently held in New Delhi, highlighting the growing importance of regional security cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.
About the Colombo Security Conclave
The Colombo Security Conclave is a regional security framework comprising India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Mauritius, and Seychelles.
Its primary objective is to strengthen regional security by jointly addressing transnational and non-traditional security challenges faced by member countries.
The conclave facilitates regular engagement among National Security Advisors and Deputy National Security Advisors, enabling strategic dialogue and coordination.
Origin and Evolution of the CSC
The CSC originated in 2011 as the Trilateral for Maritime Security Cooperation, involving India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.
The mechanism became inactive after 2014 due to political tensions between India and the Maldives.
In 2020, the grouping was revived and rebranded as the Colombo Security Conclave.
Over time, its membership expanded:
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Mauritius joined in 2022,
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Bangladesh joined in 2024, and
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Seychelles became the sixth member in the most recent expansion.
Key Pillars of Cooperation
Cooperation under the Colombo Security Conclave is organised around five major pillars:
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Maritime Safety and Security, focusing on safeguarding sea lanes and maritime domain awareness.
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Countering Terrorism and Radicalisation, through intelligence sharing and joint capacity-building initiatives.
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Combating Trafficking and Transnational Organised Crime, including drug trafficking and human smuggling.
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Cybersecurity and Protection of Critical Infrastructure, addressing emerging digital and cyber threats.
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Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), strengthening regional disaster preparedness and response.
Institutional Framework
The permanent secretariat of the Colombo Security Conclave is located in Colombo, Sri Lanka, ensuring continuity, coordination, and follow-up on decisions taken by member states.
Significance of the Colombo Security Conclave
The CSC plays a vital role in enhancing India’s maritime neighbourhood outreach and promoting a rules-based security architecture in the Indian Ocean Region.
It complements broader regional initiatives such as SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and reinforces collective responses to shared security challenges