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Source — Source: IE ///Category — GS Paper 2 ///Published — 2026-02-10 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — International Relations, Indian Ocean Region, Security Studies ///Source — Source: IE ///Category — GS Paper 2 ///Published — 2026-02-10 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — International Relations, Indian Ocean Region, Security Studies ///

Source: IE · GS Paper 2

Colombo Security Conclave

The Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) is a maritime security grouping of Indian Ocean nations that operationalises India’s SAGAR and MAHASAGAR initiatives. Its expansion to include Seychelles strengthens India’s role as the primary security provider in the IOR, countering extra‑regional influence.

2026-02-10

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Source: IE

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Colombo Security Conclave (CSC)

What is CSC?

A regional security grouping of Indian Ocean nations focusing on maritime safety, counter‑terrorism, trafficking, cyber security and HADR.
Permanent Secretariat: Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Evolution & Membership

2011: Launched as a Trilateral Maritime Security Cooperation between India, Sri Lanka, Maldives.
2014: Became dormant after India‑Maldives diplomatic strain.
2020: Revived and rebranded as Colombo Security Conclave.
Membership expansion:
Mauritius – 2022
Bangladesh – 2024
Seychelles – 2025 (highlighted during India‑Seychelles bilateral talks)

Five Pillars of Cooperation

Maritime Safety & Security (core focus)
Counter‑Terrorism & Radicalisation
Combating Trafficking & Transnational Organized Crime
Cyber Security & Protection of Critical Infrastructure
Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR)

Strategic Significance for India

Operationalisation of SAGAR & MAHASAGAR: Demonstrates India’s commitment to Security and Growth for All in the Region.
First‑Responder Role: Positions India as the net security provider, reducing smaller island nations’ reliance on extra‑regional powers, notably China.
Contrast with IORA: While the Indian Ocean Rim Association is a broad dialogue platform, CSC is security‑focused and operational, enabling concrete coordination among National Security Advisors (NSAs) and Deputy NSAs.

Governance Structure

Members: NSAs and Deputy NSAs of each country.
Decision‑making: Consensus‑based, facilitated by the Colombo Secretariat.

Relevance to India’s Foreign Policy

Enhances India‑Seychelles ties and broader India‑Indian Ocean outreach.
Supports Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) and Blue‑Economy initiatives.
Contributes to regional stability, crucial for trade routes and energy security.

References

India–Seychelles bilateral meeting (Feb 2026)
Official CSC releases (2020‑2025)