New Delhi (Agency): India is the central focus as it hosts the Maritime Information Sharing Workshop 2023 (MISW 23) from September 14th to 16th. The workshop aims to foster security and growth in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) through multi-nation collaboration.
Gurugram, India becomes a strategic hub this week for discussions on maritime security. The Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) is hosting MISW 23. It’s a gathering of 31 countries from the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the Djibouti Code of Conduct/Jeddah Amendment (DCoC/JA).
Oceans are not just bodies of water; they’re vital for global trade and geopolitics. The IOR is particularly significant as it is a bridge between continents and a hotbed for economic activities. Recognizing this, the IFC-IOR was established in 2018 to enhance maritime safety and security. It is a unique centre where international liaison officers from twelve countries like Australia, USA, and Japan collaborate on maritime challenges.
Vice Admiral Sanjay Mahindru, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy, will inaugurate the event. The three-day workshop aims to address a wide range of threats to maritime safety. These include piracy, smuggling, and illegal migration, all of which impact global commerce.
The theme of MISW 23 is “Advancing Maritime Security for a Sustainable Future.” The workshop serves as a platform for the exchange of best practices among professionals from across the globe. It aims to build camaraderie and a coordinated response to maritime threats.
The first day will feature thematic training sessions from eminent speakers. Topics will cover transnational security challenges and the role of technology in maritime security. Day two will focus on a maritime security exercise based on real-world scenarios, demonstrating the value of collaboration. The third day is dedicated to refining Standard Operating Procedures for the DCoC/JA countries.
India’s vision is clear: to secure growth and stability in the region through Security And Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR). With this workshop, the country aims to bolster collaboration, cooperation, and information sharing among the participating nations. It’s a crucial step toward a safer, peaceful, and more prosperous Indian Ocean Region.
The event anticipates robust discussions and knowledge sharing that could set the stage for future collaborative efforts. As India takes the helm in leading this international workshop, it highlights the country’s commitment to a more secure and prosperous future for all nations surrounding the Indian Ocean.