Navigating Maritime Challenges: Insights from Colombo Security Conclave
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The Third Maritime Law Workshop at Colombo Security Conclave
In a bid to address the pressing issues surrounding maritime security, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral R. Hari Kumar emphasized the importance of continued regional cooperation and coordinated efforts. The platform of Rashtriya Raksha University hosted the third edition of the Colombo Security Conclave Maritime Law Workshop from March 19th to 20th, 2024. Legal experts from maritime security and law enforcement agencies of CSC nations, alongside personnel from the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, Border Security Force, Central Industrial Security Force, and the National Academy of Coastal Policing gathered to delve into crucial matters about maritime law and security.
Discussion on Maritime Domain Awareness
One of the focal points of the workshop was the legal regimes concerning Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA). Participants engaged in insightful discussions regarding the importance of MDA in ensuring maritime security and strategies to enhance awareness in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The exchange of best practices aimed to bolster collaborative efforts in combating maritime threats effectively.
Countering Maritime Grey Zone Activities
Another significant topic of discussion revolved around the legal means to counter maritime grey zone activities. Participants deliberated on the challenges posed by ambiguous maritime activities and explored legal frameworks to address such threats. The workshop provided a platform for sharing expertise and devising comprehensive strategies to mitigate grey zone activities in the maritime domain.
Applicability of Cyber and Information Security Laws
In light of emerging threats, the applicability of cyber and information security laws in the maritime domain was thoroughly examined. Participants analyzed the evolving landscape of cyber threats and explored legal mechanisms to counter cyber threats effectively. The workshop emphasized the need for robust cybersecurity frameworks to safeguard maritime interests against digital threats.
Sharing Best Practices
The workshop facilitated the sharing of best practices from a legal perspective towards mitigating various challenges related to maritime security. Participants drew upon their experiences and expertise to identify effective legal interventions and strategies. The exchange of insights aimed to foster a collaborative approach to addressing maritime security concerns across the region.
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Welcoming Address by Mr. Sushil Goswami
Mr. Sushil Goswami, University Dean & Director of SICMSS, extended a warm welcome to participants, expressing his pleasure in hosting the 3rd edition of the Maritime Law Workshop. He underscored the pivotal role of the School of Integrated Coastal and Maritime Security Studies (SICMSS) in contributing to coastal and maritime security governance. The workshop aimed to foster meaningful engagements and knowledge-sharing among member and observer states regarding maritime law and order matters in the IOR.
Insights from Vice Admiral G. Ashok Kumar
Vice Admiral G. Ashok Kumar, National Maritime Security Coordinator (NMSC), shed light on the mounting pressure to address non-traditional threats to maritime security, particularly in the Indian Ocean region. He emphasized the critical role of maritime security in national prosperity, citing the reliance of over 80% of global trade on maritime routes. The workshop highlighted the imperative for comprehensive maritime law enforcement and the importance of awareness and collaboration among nations to address identified gaps effectively.
Achievements and Analysis by Prof. (Dr.) Bimal N. Patel
Prof. (Dr.) Bimal N. Patel, Vice Chancellor of RRU, highlighted the major achievements of the School of Integrated Coastal and Maritime Security Studies in the domain of coastal and maritime security law and governance. He provided a detailed analysis of various incidents arising from non-traditional threats and highlighted joint maritime exercises and operations undertaken by the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. Prof. Patel emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in promoting stability and security in the IOR through platforms like the Colombo Security Conclave.
Acknowledgment from Admiral R. Hari Kumar
Admiral R. Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), acknowledged India’s maritime heritage and its vision for an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. He stressed the importance of cooperative mechanisms and multilateral forums in addressing maritime security challenges collectively. Through initiatives like the Maritime Law Workshop, he called for continued regional cooperation and coordinated efforts to overcome maritime security challenges.
Expressions of Gratitude from Manish Kumar Singh
Manish Kumar Singh expressed gratitude to the National Maritime Security Coordinator and the Chief of the Naval Staff for their visionary leadership in promoting safety and security in the Indian Ocean region. He also thanked all CSC nations and Indian armed services personnel for their active participation in the conclave through Rashtriya Raksha University.
