The Indian Navy will host the fifth edition of the Goa Maritime Symposium (GMS-24) at the Naval War College, Goa, from September 23 to 24, 2024. The event aims to promote regional cooperation and tackle common maritime security challenges in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Key Focus: Maritime Security in the Indian Ocean Region
The theme of GMS-24 is “Common Maritime Security Challenges in the Indian Ocean Region: Progressing Lines of Efforts to Mitigate Dynamic Threats.” The symposium will address illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing and other illegal maritime activities. Discussions will emphasize collaborative efforts to strengthen maritime security and ensure safe seas.
Background of the Goa Maritime Symposium
The Goa Maritime Symposium started in 2016 as an initiative by the Indian Navy to foster dialogue on key maritime issues. Since its inception, the symposium has grown in significance, focusing on important topics like regional security, maritime trade, and the impact of climate change on the oceans. This platform enables countries to strengthen partnerships and cooperation, especially in the face of piracy and other security threats.
Countries Participating in GMS-24
This year’s symposium will see the participation of 12 Indian Ocean Littoral countries, including:
- Bangladesh
- Comoros
- Indonesia
- Madagascar
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Mauritius
- Myanmar
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Sri Lanka
- Thailand
Additionally, Kenya and Tanzania will attend the event as observers.
Goals and Motivations Behind the Goa Maritime Symposium
The primary goal of GMS-24 is to encourage collaboration between countries in the Indian Ocean Region to address shared security challenges. By working together, these nations aim to develop strategies for preventing threats like illegal fishing, piracy, and other maritime crimes.
This symposium will also enhance diplomatic relations and promote regional peace and stability by improving maritime coordination and security.
Global and National Impact of GMS-24
The Goa Maritime Symposium has far-reaching implications for both the region and international maritime security. Enhanced cooperation between Indian Ocean nations contributes to maintaining peace and protecting crucial sea routes used for global trade. Furthermore, by addressing security issues like illegal fishing, the symposium helps protect the economic resources of these nations.
Table: Countries Participating in Goa Maritime Symposium 2024
| Country | Role in Symposium |
| Bangladesh | Active participant |
| Comoros | Active participant |
| Indonesia | Active participant |
| Kenya | Observer |
| Madagascar | Active participant |
| Malaysia | Active participant |
| Maldives | Active participant |
| Mauritius | Active participant |
| Myanmar | Active participant |
| Seychelles | Active participant |
| Singapore | Active participant |
| Sri Lanka | Active participant |
| Tanzania | Observer |
| Thailand | Active participant |
Key Summary of GMS-24
- Dates: September 23-24, 2024
- Host: Indian Navy at Naval War College, Goa
- Theme: Common Maritime Security Challenges in the Indian Ocean Region
- Focus: Addressing illegal fishing and maritime crimes
- Participating Nations: 12 countries, with 2 observers
Aim: Strengthening maritime cooperation and regional security
Also Read-
Exercise Eastern Bridge VII: Indian Air Force and Royal Air Force of Oman Strengthen Military Ties
Iran Unveils Shahed 136B Drone and Jihad Ballistic Missile
The Goa Maritime Symposium (GMS) is an annual forum hosted by the Indian Navy to discuss maritime security challenges in the Indian Ocean Region.
Representatives from 12 Indian Ocean Littoral countries will attend, including Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Malaysia, along with Kenya and Tanzania as observers.
The symposium will focus on addressing illegal fishing, piracy, and other maritime threats, with an emphasis on collaborative security efforts.
The Indian Ocean is a critical region for global trade and resource management. Ensuring security helps protect economic resources and maintain peace.
The symposium strengthens India’s diplomatic relations and helps build stronger security ties with Indian Ocean nations, contributing to regional and global stability.