Cyber Cooperation Call: Bangladesh Backs Broader CSC Collaboration

Bangladesh has called for stronger collective action among member countries of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) to tackle the challenges of cyber security, misinformation, and disinformation.

National Security Adviser Dr. Khilalur Rahman said, “To confront the challenges of cyber security, misinformation, and rumours, we must clearly implement our collective measures, and we look forward to CSC’s initiatives in this regard.”

He made these remarks on Thursday (20 November) while representing Bangladesh at the 7th meeting of CSC National Security Advisers held in New Delhi. At the meeting, he thanked India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval for hosting the conference and for the warm hospitality extended to the Bangladeshi delegation.

Khilalur Rahman noted that Bangladesh’s participation in CSC activities has been consistent and that Dhaka remains committed to the principles of sovereignty, equality, territorial integrity, and non-interference.

He said the Conclave’s five core pillars are essential to ensuring collective security, regional stability, and shared prosperity among member states.

The National Security Adviser highlighted Bangladesh’s contributions to maritime security, combating piracy and organised maritime crimes, counterterrorism, and cyber security.

Reaffirming Dhaka’s firm stance against extremist violence, he said, “Bangladesh has consistently condemned terrorism worldwide and follows a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of terrorism.”

He warned that rapid digitalisation and the emergence of artificial intelligence have turned cybercrime into a major regional concern. “Cyber security is now the utmost priority in Bangladesh,” he added.

“Our country is facing relentless attacks of misinformation and rumours and is committed to securing cyberspace, critical infrastructure, and technology for the protection of citizens,” he said.

Khilalur Rahman stressed that “national efforts alone are not enough to meet emerging challenges.”

He urged CSC members to strengthen mutual trust and respect while pursuing shared interests and benefits as part of broader regional security cooperation.

He reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to working closely with regional partners to ensure a stable, peaceful, and prosperous Indian Ocean region and to address common security challenges.

“We cannot allow any external or internal force to challenge the security and well-being of our community,” he said.

The National Security Adviser reaffirmed that Bangladesh is prepared to work with CSC members to establish a common stance based on mutual trust and openness in navigating complex and evolving security dynamics.

Finally, Khilalur Rahman expressed hope that the Conclave would evolve into an open, inclusive regional multilateral organisation guided by the vision of open regionalism.

On Wednesday, Dr. Khilalur Rahman held a meeting with India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval. They discussed CSC activities and key bilateral issues.

According to the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi, Rahman invited Doval to visit Bangladesh at a convenient time.

DBTech/BSS/IK/OR