33rd Annual IMBL Meeting Strengthens Maritime Security Cooperation between India and Sri Lanka

The 33rd annual meeting between representatives of the Indian Navy and Sri Lankan Navy and Coast Guard took place on Friday onboard INS Sumitra, stationed at the Indo-Sri Lanka Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) off Point Calimere in Palk Bay. This significant interaction provided a crucial platform for the Navies and Coast Guards of both nations to bolster ties and enhance operational synergy.

Heading the Sri Lankan delegation was RAdm BAKS Banagoda, Commander of the North Central Naval Area (NCNA) of the Sri Lanka Navy. The Indian delegation was led by RAdm Ravi Kumar Dhingra, Flag Officer Commanding Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Naval Area (FOTNA). Additionally, representatives from Coast Guard Regional Headquarters (East) and the Defence Advisor to the High Commission of India in Colombo, along with other senior officers, were present.

Discussions during the meeting encompassed maritime security concerns in the Palk Bay and Gulf of Mannar region, emphasizing the safety of fishermen, and strategies to combat contraband trafficking, among other pertinent issues. The attendees also delved into strategies for augmenting the existing communication network and ensuring the prompt sharing of crucial information between the two Navies and the Coast Guard, facilitating swift and effective response measures.

Both parties reaffirmed the vital importance of mutual cooperation in operations and expressed their commitment to implementing the decisions made to fortify maritime security in the area.