The maritime domain is one of the most fertile grounds for future Commonwealth cooperation. At the recent Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, the Commonwealth Security & Resilience Group was delighted to join discussions with Heads and leaders across a range of maritime issues and options for addressing them. From earth monitoring solutions and new information fusion centres, to the need for bespoke shipping ID and maritime cybersecurity technology.
The welcome announcement of the Commonwealth Oceans Declaration at CHOGM highlights the central importance of maritime issues for Commonwealth member states and demonstrates real commitment to building new partnerships. Of particular note, the Oceans Declaration "encourages capacity building, technology transfer on voluntary and mutually agreed terms, and regional cooperation in the sharing of information and joint operations related to maritime domain awareness, broader maritime security, and enforcement." These areas impact the lives, livelihoods, and sovereignty of citizens, business and nations throughout the Commonwealth - and require new policy, networks, and innovation. Through our Maritime Domain Awareness programme we are excited to drive these ideas forward, building on the intent and message of the declaration.
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