(Commonwealth_ The Sri Lankan Cabinet’s recent approval for the establishment of a Regional Centre for Maritime Studies in collaboration with France marks a significant step in enhancing maritime security and education in the Indo-Pacific region. This decision aligns with both countries’ shared interests in safeguarding regional maritime stability and security, particularly in the strategically vital Indian Ocean.
Strategic Collaboration between Sri Lanka and France
The proposal, which was presented by Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe in his capacity as Minister of Defence, involves entering into a bilateral agreement between Sri Lanka and France. The centre is set to be established at the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, a prominent institution in Sri Lanka, with the necessary support and infrastructure from the Trincomalee Naval and Maritime Academy. This collaboration underscores France’s recognition of Sri Lanka as the “most suitable location” for such a critical initiative.
This partnership is part of France’s broader strategy in the Indo-Pacific, where it has significant geopolitical and economic interests. The French Ambassador for Indo-Pacific, Marc Abensour, has been actively involved in discussions about the modalities of the training school, reflecting France’s commitment to enhancing maritime safety and security in the region.
France’s Maritime Strategy in the Indian Ocean
France’s interest in establishing the Regional Centre for Maritime Studies in Sri Lanka is closely tied to its strategic presence in the Indian Ocean. The French Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the Indian Ocean is one of the largest, giving France a vital stake in the region’s security dynamics. The Ambassador emphasized that France’s military presence, with bases in Djibouti and the United Arab Emirates, and approximately 4,000 military personnel deployed across the Indian Ocean, plays a crucial role in maintaining regional stability. These forces are tasked with protecting French sovereignty, safeguarding sea lanes of communication, and securing underwater cables, all of which are critical for global trade and communication networks.
The establishment of the Regional Centre for Maritime Studies is expected to bolster these efforts by serving as a hub for maritime research, education, and training. The centre will likely focus on key areas such as maritime security, navigation, and environmental protection, addressing both current challenges and future needs in the maritime domain.
Implications for Regional Security and Cooperation
The new maritime studies centre is expected to enhance regional cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, a region that has become increasingly contested due to the strategic interests of major powers. With its strategic location, Sri Lanka is poised to play a pivotal role in this evolving landscape. The collaboration with France is likely to deepen Sri Lanka’s ties with other Indo-Pacific nations, fostering greater cooperation in maritime security and related fields.
The centre could serve as a platform for joint training and exercises, bringing together naval forces from different countries to enhance interoperability and coordination. This would not only strengthen regional security but also contribute to the development of a rules-based maritime order, which is essential for ensuring the free and open use of international waters.
The decision to establish a Regional Centre for Maritime Studies in Sri Lanka, in collaboration with France, is a strategic move that reflects both countries’ commitment to enhancing maritime security and stability in the Indo-Pacific. The centre is expected to play a crucial role in training the next generation of maritime professionals, conducting research on key issues, and fostering regional cooperation. As the geopolitical landscape in the Indian Ocean continues to evolve, this initiative represents a significant step towards ensuring the region’s security and prosperity.
