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On August 30, 2024, India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Mauritius signed a Charter and a memorandum to establish the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) secretariat.
Bangladesh, a new member, was absent during the signing, but no explanation was provided.
The CSC aims to enhance regional security cooperation in the Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean.
Key Facts About the Colombo Security Conclave
The CSC focuses on regional security cooperation, particularly in the Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean regions.
The CSC, was formed in 2011 as a trilateral maritime security grouping of India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
Mauritius joined the conclave in 2022 while Bangladesh joined in 2024.
Seychelles is an observer state.
Objectives: The CSC aims to address issues such as:
Maritime safety and security
Counter-terrorism and radicalization
Combating trafficking and organized crime
Cybersecurity and protecting critical infrastructure
Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief
The CSC had been stagnant between 2014 and 2020 but has recently gained momentum with expanded membership and renewed cooperation efforts.
The CSC provides a platform for member states to collaborate on security challenges and counteract external threats, particularly from China.
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