What Happened at the 7th NSA Meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave in India?
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Synopsis
The 7th NSA meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave in New Delhi marks a significant step towards enhancing regional security cooperation among member nations. This gathering not only highlights the commitment of states to tackle pressing security issues but also paves the way for a collaborative future in the Indian Ocean Region.
Key Takeaways
- Strengthening Regional Cooperation: Member states are committed to working together on security issues.
- Capacity Building Initiatives: Emphasis on training and enhancing capabilities among member nations.
- New Membership: Seychelles has become a full member of the CSC.
- Comprehensive Review: A review of past meetings guided future discussions.
- Focus on Key Security Areas: Discussions revolved around maritime safety, cyber security, and counter-terrorism.
New Delhi, Nov 20 (NationPress) The 7th National Security Advisor (NSA) level meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) took place in New Delhi on Thursday, where member nations reaffirmed their dedication to the vision and goals of the CSC, as announced by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
NSA Ajit Doval welcomed his counterparts from member countries including Maldives, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. The Seychelles participated as an Observer State, with Malaysia attending as a Guest for the first time.
During the meeting, the inaugural Secretary General, appointed by India, provided a detailed review to the CSC Member States about the resolutions made during the 6th NSA meeting held in Mauritius on December 7-8, 2023, alongside actions taken since then across five cooperation pillars: Maritime Safety and Security; Countering Terrorism and Radicalisation; Combating Trafficking and Transnational Organised Crime; Cyber Security and Protection of Critical Infrastructure and Technology; and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief.
The CSC Member States explored methods to enhance collaboration within these defined pillars, including training and capacity building initiatives. They also welcomed the Seychelles' decision to join the CSC as a full member.
The delegations from the member nations were led by Ibrahim Latheef, National Security Advisor of Maldives; Rahul Rasgotra, National Security Advisor of Mauritius; Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha, Secretary of the Sri Lankan Ministry of Defence; and Khalil-ur-Rehman, National Security Advisor of Bangladesh.
Furthermore, the Seychelles delegation was headed by Major General Michael Rosette, Chief of Seychelles Defence Forces. Malaysia's representation came from Badrul Shah Mohd Idris, Deputy Director General of the Malaysian National Security Council.
As per the MEA, the CSC was established to foster closer cooperation on critical security issues and strengthen partnerships aimed at enhancing regional security within the Indian Ocean Region.
The signing ceremony for the CSC's founding documents took place in Sri Lanka in August 2024.
The MEA highlighted that India has hosted numerous events over the years, including the First CSC Oceanographers and Hydrographers Conference, where member and observer states exchanged insights and best practices regarding oceanography and hydrography, discussing collaborative strategies to tackle regional ocean-related challenges.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the strategic importance of the Colombo Security Conclave. This meeting not only reinforces India's role as a regional leader but also highlights the collaborative efforts necessary to address complex security challenges. The commitment among member states is a positive step towards a secure Indian Ocean Region.
NationPress
20/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Colombo Security Conclave?
The Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) is a collaborative platform aimed at promoting security cooperation among member states in the Indian Ocean Region, addressing issues like terrorism, maritime security, and humanitarian assistance.
Who attended the 7th NSA meeting?
The meeting was attended by National Security Advisors from Maldives, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, with Seychelles participating as an Observer State and Malaysia as a Guest.
What are the main topics discussed at the meeting?
The main topics included enhancing cooperation in maritime security, countering terrorism, cyber security, and humanitarian assistance among member states.
