By IANS
New Delhi : Ships and delegates from 13 countries will meet at Port Blair later this month to boost India’s naval diplomacy and foster bonds of friendship across the seas.
Navy ships and delegations from countries including Australia, New Zealand, Myanmar, Thailand, Bangladesh, Vietnam and Brunei are expected to take part in the meet called Milan 08, scheduled to be held in Port Blair Jan 18-23.
The biennial conglomeration of the Asia Pacific Maritime Navies, in which nine Asian countries are participating, is expected to give a push to India’s look-east policy.
Experts point out that the naval meet is significant as it indicates the participant countries’ willingness to work with India to keep surveillance over the waters around the Andaman and the Malacca Straits.
“The event assumes significance in view of the increasing maritime trade in the areas of common interest and need to safeguard the sea lanes of communications from poaching and terrorist activities,” said a statement from the Indian Navy.
“It is important in view of the increasing maritime trade in the areas of common interest and need to safeguard the sea lanes of communications from poaching and terrorist activities,” it added.
The event will also showcase the beautiful Andaman and Nicobar Islands and its rich heritage to visitors from participating countries.
The six-day event includes professional interactions in seminars and cultural presentations.
The event will culminate with a city parade off Marina Jan 22 of colourful march past by the navies, school children, NCC and police contingents, motor cycle display by army, aerobatic show by the Indian Air Force front line supersonic fighters, Sukhoi-30’s, demonstration and water para jumps by the Indian Navy’s Marine Commandos.
The visiting ships and delegates will have a ceremonial see off Jan 23 from the Naval wharf.