Indian Ocean Security Needs Collective Action, Says SL Navy

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Indian Ocean is not just a body of water—it is the lifeblood of Sri Lanka’s identity and future, said Rear Admiral Damian Fernando, Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Navy, in a powerful statement ahead of the 12th Galle Dialogue International Maritime Conference.

"The Indian Ocean is not merely a geographical space for us. It is the very heart of our existence as an island nation," he told reporters on Monday (15).

Speaking on the strategic importance of the region, Rear Admiral Fernando emphasized that the Indian Ocean serves as a critical conduit for global trade and energy, while also sustaining livelihoods, cultures, and ecosystems.

However, he warned that the region faces increasing pressures from geopolitical competition, maritime security threats, climate change, habitat loss, and resource exploitation.

“This year’s dialogue will address these multifaceted challenges through five thematic pillars,” he said:

Marine Environment – Ensuring protection and conservation.
Maritime Governance – Strengthening a rule-based order.
Maritime Economy – Unlocking the blue economy responsibly.
Maritime Sustainability – Balancing development and preservation.
A Clean Indian Ocean – Combating pollution for future generations.

Rear Admiral Fernando noted that these themes were developed through rigorous professional scrutiny, reflecting the urgency and complexity of the issues at hand.

The upcoming conference will bring together delegations from 33 countries and 12 international organizations, highlighting the global recognition that securing the Indian Ocean requires collective and collaborative efforts.