The 7th Annual High-Level Meeting between the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG) held in Colombo on November 11, 2024, emphasized regional maritime security and cooperation.
Strengthening Maritime Cooperation
On November 11, 2024, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG) convened their 7th Annual High-Level Meeting in Colombo. This significant event marked another step in fostering regional maritime security and collaboration. A four-member ICG delegation, led by Director General S. Paramesh, met with the SLCG team, headed by Director General Rear Admiral YR Serasinghe, to address pressing maritime challenges and reinforce cooperative strategies.
Event Overview
- Date: November 11, 2024
- Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka
Delegations at the Meeting
Indian Coast Guard (ICG)
- Delegation led by Director General S. Paramesh
- Comprised of a four-member team
Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG)
- Delegation headed by Director General Rear Admiral YR Serasinghe
Key Focus Areas
The meeting revolved around enhancing cooperation to tackle regional maritime challenges. Discussions focused on:
- Drug Trafficking in the Maritime Domain
- Collaborative measures to combat illegal drug trafficking.
- Marine Pollution
- Implementation of strategies for cleaner oceans and reducing pollution.
- Safety of Mariners and Rescue Operations
- Strengthening frameworks for maritime rescue missions.
- Adopting Best Practices
- Sharing effective strategies for maritime governance.
- Capacity-Building Programs
- Initiatives to enhance skills and knowledge-sharing.
- Collaborative Arrangements
- Developing frameworks for better coordination and joint operations.
Outcomes of the Meeting
- Reaffirmation of Commitment
- Both sides reiterated their dedication to mutual cooperation in tackling maritime challenges.
- Enhanced Maritime Safety and Security
- Emphasis on a stronger safety and security framework in the region.
- Strengthening Collaboration
- Agreement to bolster existing efforts and explore new opportunities for joint action.
Institutionalized Mechanism
This meeting was held under the framework established by the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in May 2018 between the ICG and SLCG. The MoU formalized the structure for these annual discussions and collaborative initiatives.
Future Plans
- The 8th Annual High-Level Meeting will be hosted by the Indian Coast Guard in 2025, continuing the tradition of strengthening bilateral relations.
Significance of the Meeting
- Regional Maritime Security
- Highlights the importance of joint efforts in ensuring the safety and security of the Indian Ocean Region.
- Enhanced Bilateral Relations
- Strengthens the partnership between India and Sri Lanka in the realm of maritime governance and security.
Indian Coast Guard: Quick Facts
What is the Indian Coast Guard?
- An armed force tasked with protecting India’s maritime interests and enforcing maritime laws.
- Jurisdiction spans territorial waters, contiguous zones, and the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of India.
History
- Established in 1978 under the Coast Guard Act, 1978.
- Recognized as an independent armed force of India.
Parent Ministry
- Operates under the Ministry of Defence.
Administration
- Headed by the Director General of the Indian Coast Guard (DGICG).
Headquarters
- Located at Coast Guard Headquarters (CGHQ) in New Delhi.
