02nd Indo Pacific Regional Information Sharing Steering Committee Meeting concludes on successful note

The second (02nd) Indo Pacific Regional Information Sharing (IORIS) Steering Committee Meeting concluded on a successful note on 07th March 2024. Co-chaired by the Sri Lanka Navy and CRIMARIO II, IORIS Steering Committee Meeting was held over three days (05th -07th March) in Colombo.

More than 130 officials and representatives from over 56 agencies and authorities across the Indo-Pacific region, together with other regional actors, convened at the three – day IORIS Steering Committee Meeting. Through this effort, it was expected to consolidate and enhance the governance of IORIS, the Indo-Pacific regional information sharing platform designed to facilitate coordination and exchange of information to respond effectively to maritime security threats and support sustainable fisheries. Central to the discussion was the enhancement of the of IORIS’ role in enabling Command, Control and Communication (C3), data storage policy, and the accountability of users, with the ultimate goal of strengthening cooperation for more safe and secure seas. Furthermore, presentations and group discussions served as the primary means for stakeholders to share insights, experiences, and expertise concerning the policy, administrative, legal, technical, and operational aspects of the information exchange system.

Meanwhile, a boat trip was arranged on the Madu Ganga, Balapitiya to promote awareness of Sri Lanka's mangrove ecosystem and to foster goodwill among the participants of the IORIS Steering Committee Meeting.

The Chief of Staff of the Navy, Rear Admiral Pradeep Rathnayake, Director General Sri Lanka Coast Guard, Rear Admiral Pujitha Vithana and a group of officers from the Navy and Coast Guard were also present at IORIS Steering Committee Meeting.