NSA Ajit Doval Begins Two-Day Official Visit to Colombo to Discuss Security Initiatives
On August 29, 2024, National Security Adviser Ajit K. Doval commenced a two-day official visit to Colombo, Sri Lanka, for discussions pertaining to the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC), as reported by sources from The Hindu. The timing of Mr. Doval’s visit is particularly significant, occurring approximately three weeks prior to Sri Lanka’s Presidential elections set for September 21.
Although there has been no formal announcement regarding the specifics of his itinerary, various political entities in Colombo have indicated that they have received invitations to engage in discussions with Mr. Doval. These meetings are anticipated to address the progress and initiatives of the Colombo Security Conclave, which originally commenced as a trilateral arrangement involving India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, and has subsequently expanded to encompass Mauritius, Bangladesh, and the Seychelles in an observer capacity.
The Ministry of External Affairs previously noted that the sixth meeting at the National Security Adviser level was successfully conducted in Mauritius in December 2023, with the subsequent gathering of security chiefs anticipated to take place in India later this year. Additionally, it is noteworthy that on July 10, the eighth meeting at the Deputy National Security Adviser level was conducted virtually, wherein India, Mauritius, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka welcomed Bangladesh as the fifth member of this strategic grouping, aimed primarily at addressing the burgeoning influence of China within the Indian Ocean Region.
In conclusion, Mr. Doval’s visit represents a critical engagement for regional security collaboration, especially in light of the upcoming Presidential elections in Sri Lanka and the broader geopolitical dynamics at play in the Indian Ocean.
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