First BIMSTEC maritime security exercise begins in Andaman & Nicobar Islands

The initiative aims to improve interoperability, strengthen maritime domain awareness and facilitate the exchange of best practices among participating countries

The inaugural BIMSTEC maritime security exercise, a regional naval engagement aimed at improving maritime coordination, surveillance and cooperation among member states began on Friday, in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, bringing together seven member states to strengthen maritime cooperation and regional security in the Bay of Bengal.

In a significant move to improve operational coordination and maritime security in the Bay of Bengal, the inaugural BIMSTEC maritime security exercise began in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on Friday, bringing together all seven member states.

In a press statement, the Indian Ministry of Defence says that the exercise, being conducted from October 30 to November 3, involves Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand. 

hrough the exercise, participating countries are seeking to improve information-sharing, coordination mechanisms and their ability to work together on maritime security matters

The statement adds that the initiative aims to improve interoperability, strengthen maritime domain awareness and facilitate the exchange of best practices among participating countries.

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The exercise follows the outcomes of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, held under the theme BIMSTEC: Prosperous, Resilient and Open. It seeks to translate the commitments made by member states into practical cooperation in areas of common maritime interest.

The Bay of Bengal connects South and Southeast Asia and serves as an important route for international trade, connectivity and energy supplies. It is also central to the economic activities of Bimstec member states. Cooperation in maritime security is therefore important for protecting shipping routes, improving regional connectivity and addressing common security concerns.

According to statement, the exercise also brings attention to the strategic importance of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which are located near key sea lanes of communication linking the Indian Ocean with Southeast Asia.

Through the exercise, participating countries are seeking to improve information-sharing, coordination mechanisms and their ability to work together on maritime security matters. 

Masrat Nabi

Masrat Nabi is a journalist covering politics, defense, travel, gender, social issues, and public policy. She enjoys telling stories that highlight different perspectives, explore important issues, and bring attention to topics that often go unnoticed.