Maldives joins regional maritime security initiative with India, Sri Lanka and Mauritius –

The Maldives, under President Mohamed Muizzu, has joined Mauritius, Sri Lanka and India to form a new maritime security architecture.

The Maldives, under President Mohamed Muizzu, has joined Mauritius, Sri Lanka and India to form a new maritime security architecture. The development marks a significant step in addressing various threats in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The Charter of Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) were formalised on 30 September during a high-level meeting of National Security Advisors (NSAs).

Signing Ceremony and Key Figures

The MoU was signed by prominent figures including Sagala Ratnayaka, NSA to the President of Sri Lanka; Ibrahim Latheef, NSA of the Maldives; Haymandoyal Dillim, High Commissioner of Mauritius to Sri Lanka; and Ajit Doval, NSA to the Prime Minister of India. Although Bangladesh, an observer nation, was absent from the conclave, Seychelles participated in the proceedings.

Pillars of cooperation

The CSC framework, described as the ‘Pillars of Cooperation’, includes:

• Maritime safety and security
• Counter-terrorism and radicalisation
• Combating human trafficking and organised crime
• Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure Protection
• Humanitarian aid and disaster relief

The initiative aims to improve coordination between Member States to tackle transnational organised crime, including drug trafficking, arms trafficking and human trafficking. In addition, the CSC will facilitate information sharing on counter-terrorism, cyber threats and criminal networks, supported by national and international laws.

Capacity building and joint efforts

A key aspect of the CSC is its focus on capacity building. Member States will work together on training courses, joint exercises, workshops and skills development programmes. In addition, the initiative will promote cooperation in various areas, such as oceanography, hydrography, maritime safety, marine pollution, maritime law, marine archaeology and the protection of marine resources.

Institutional structure and future prospects

The CSC will operate on a consensus-based approach for future decisions. An institutionalized mechanism with NSAs and Deputy NSAs will ensure effective dialogue and coordination. The CSC Secretariat, based in Colombo, will be headed by a Secretary-General who will serve as the convener for this strategic security grouping.

Commitment to regional security

The CSC represents a commitment to improving maritime security among its members. The Narendra Modi government has pledged support for capacity building without political interference. The participation of President Mohamed Muizzu signals a strategic alignment with India and a move towards greater cooperation within the Indian Ocean region, in contrast to previous external influences.