Q. With reference to Colombo Security Conclave (CSC), consider the following statements:
1. It aims to create a platform for closer cooperation in maritime security and address regional security threats.
2. India, Bangladesh, and Nepal are the founding members of the CSC.
3. Observer states of CSC have no role in decision-making.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
Explanation –
Statements 1 is correct. The CSC focuses on creating a platform for cooperation in maritime security and addressing regional security threats, including counter-terrorism, trafficking, and cybersecurity. There are five pillars of cooperation under the CSC namely 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.
Statements 2 and 3 are incorrect. The CSC was originally established as a trilateral maritime security dialogue among India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives in 2011. It was later expanded and renamed in 2020 to include Mauritius as a member. Bangladesh was initially an observer but officially became the fifth full member of the CSC during the 8th Deputy National Security Adviser (DNSA) level meeting on July 10, 2024. Currently, Seychelles holds observer status in the CSC. Observer states participate actively in discussions and can influence the decision-making processes, even though they do not have formal voting rights. Their involvement allows them to contribute significantly to the conclave’s activities.
Source: AIR
