Goa Maritime Conclave 2026 to strengthen regional maritime security cooperation by bringing together representatives from 14 Indian Ocean Region countries

**Executive Summary** The Goa Maritime Conclave (GMC-26), the fifth edition, will be held at the Naval War College, Goa, on February 21, 2026. Chiefs of Navy and senior representatives from 14 Indian Ocean Region (IOR) countries will attend to discuss maritime security challenges and strengthen cooperation in the region. This year's theme is “Common Maritime Security Challenges in the IOR – Progressing Lines of Effort to Mitigate Dynamic Threats." **Key Points / Main Content** * **Conclave Details:** * The Goa Maritime Conclave (GMC-26) will be held on February 21, 2026, at the Naval War College, Goa. * The conclave will bring together Chiefs of Navy and senior representatives from 14 IOR countries. * The main focus is on maritime security challenges and cooperation. * The theme is: “Common Maritime Security Challenges in the IOR – Progressing Lines of Effort to Mitigate Dynamic Threats.” * The event is hosted at Chola Bhawan, Naval War College's new academic complex. * **Objectives and Focus Areas:** * The Conclave aims to build a shared understanding of maritime issues and promote collaborative solutions. * The GMC-26 is notable as it is being hosted for the first time at Chola Bhawan. * The Conclave focuses on practical mechanisms for cooperation, information sharing, and capacity building. * The Conclave addresses shared maritime challenges, particularly Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, narcotics trafficking, and illicit maritime activities. * The areas impact economic security, environmental sustainability, and regional stability. * The conclave aims to promote collaborative solutions rather than unilateral responses. * **Strategic Alignment:** * The Conclave aligns with the Prime Minister's vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions). * The aim is to create shared spaces for peace, growth, and partnership in the seas. * The Goa Maritime Conclave started in 2017 and has evolved into a biennial platform for maritime dialogue and capacity building. **Impact Analysis** **IOR Nations' Navies/Representatives** * **Impact:** Affected by the discussions on maritime security challenges and cooperative mechanisms. * **Action Required:** Participate in the conclave, deliberate on common challenges, and contribute to strengthening regional maritime security cooperation. **India (Indian Navy/Naval War College)** * **Impact:** Responsible for hosting the event and facilitating discussions. * **Action Required:** Organize and manage the Conclave, ensure fruitful discussions, and implement collaborative solutions agreed upon. **Indian Ocean Region (IOR)** * **Impact:** Region stands to benefit from improved maritime security cooperation and reduced maritime threats. * **Action Required:** Support and participate in the Conclave to collectively address maritime challenges and promote regional stability.

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