About the IPSC Kailash Dialogue
The Kailash Dialogue is the Indo-Pacific Studies Center’s annual flagship Track 1.5 forum. It provides a trusted platform for high-level regional engagement where diplomats, scholars, former officials, and strategic actors can hold off-the-record, policy-relevant conversations that inform and influence Indo-Pacific cooperation.
Named after Mount Kailash—a sacred mountain revered across Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, and Bon traditions—the Dialogue embodies the ideals of elevation, neutrality, and reflection. It symbolises IPSC’s vision to convene respected voices from across the Indo-Pacific in a spirit of shared purpose and peaceful deliberation.
Dialogue Objectives
- Provide a secure, inclusive space for frank exchange among Indo-Pacific actors
- Facilitate trust-building, dialogue, and scenario-based strategic planning
- Strengthen regional agency and cooperation through non-partisan discussion
- Produce policy-relevant insights and recommendations from a Track 1.5 format
Structure & Format
The Dialogue is held annually in March and rotates between Australia and key Indo-Pacific capitals. It consists of:
- Two days of in-person closed-door roundtables and scenario-based foresight labs
- Side meetings, bilateral briefings, and working groups
- An Emerging Voices Roundtable spotlighting next-generation Indo-Pacific leadership
Why Track 1.5?
Track 1.5 dialogue formats bring together official and non-official actors to share perspectives in a high-trust setting under Chatham House Rule. They are especially valuable in the Indo-Pacific context where multilateral diplomacy is evolving, and countries seek alternatives to hegemonic or externally imposed strategic frameworks. The Kailash Dialogue strengthens middle-power voices and collaborative responses through this model.