India and European Union (EU) discussed on ways to sustain a secure maritime environment conducive for inclusive growth and global well being. This discussion took place during the 3rd India-EU Maritime Security Dialogue, which was held on 5 October 2023 in Brussels.
The Indian delegation was led by Muanpuii Saiawi, Joint Secretary for Disarmament and International Security Affairs, Ministry of External Affairs and the EU delegation by Ambassador Joanneke Balfoort, Director for Security and Defence Policy, European External Action Service.
Both sides evaluated their ongoing collaborative efforts in maritime affairs, focusing on bolstering global and regional mechanisms for comprehensive maritime security. They explored ways to strengthen their joint initiatives in areas such as countering illicit maritime activities, enforcing maritime laws, and enhancing capabilities. Additionally, they discussed plans to enhance maritime domain awareness and eagerly anticipated an upcoming India-EU maritime engagement. They also agreed to schedule the next round of the Dialogue at a mutually convenient time.
India and the EU also delved into cyber cooperation within multilateral platforms, acknowledging the significance of the Cyber Dialogue mechanism during the seventh India-EU Cyber Dialogue held in Brussels.
Furthermore, they engaged in discussions regarding collaborative efforts to enhance capacity building in the realm of cyberspace and combat the criminal exploitation of Information and Communication Technology.