The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SCG) convened for an 8th high-level meeting in New Delhi on Monday, addressing the evolving security concerns and changing geopolitical conditions in the Indian Ocean. The meeting is considered a vital step in bolstering maritime collaboration and ensuring regional stability.
The Sri Lankan delegation was led by Rear Admiral Y.R. Serasinghe, while the Indian delegation was headed by Paramash Shivamani, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard. The Sri Lankan representatives are participating in the meeting and other professional programs in India from August 10th to 14th, as part of the cooperation that began in 2018.
Key topics of discussion included strategies for preventing marine pollution, conducting search and rescue operations, enforcing maritime laws, and providing training and technical support. The focus was also on tackling maritime challenges such as piracy, illegal fishing, and the smuggling of weapons and narcotics.
This partnership between India and Sri Lanka is of strategic importance, particularly in the context of China’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean and associated maritime security threats. The meeting served as a platform for both nations to demonstrate their commitment to jointly safeguarding maritime security and environmental protection.