VISHAKHAPATNAM: Navies of the world have a unique role in promoting goodwill, nurturing peace and tranquillity of the oceans, said President Pranab Mukherjee. He felt that the International Fleet Review 2016 (IFR-16), has enabled the maritime nations to join hands and work together to secure the seas for the greater good of humanity and the world.
Speaking after reviewing the fleet on board the Presidential Yacht INS Sumitra off Visakhapatnam on Saturday, Pranab Mukherjee stated that India believes that the present day maritime domain requires navies across the world to re-focus their efforts to counter the rising tide of non-traditional maritime challenges in the brown, green and blue waters across all oceans. According to him, India's geographical location gives it a pivotal maritime role and hence, the Indian Navy has re-aligned its maritime strategy and established a credible record of cooperative initiatieves to promote stability of the oceans. "The Indian Navy played a central role in ensuring safety of the vital sea lines of communication across the Indian Ocean," he affirmed.
Around 50 friendly Navies have sailed across oceans, sending Naval ships and delegations to participate in the first IFR on the east coast of India at Visakhapatnam. "On behalf of the Government, and the people of India, I extend a very warm welcome to all our foreign guests and thank you for honouring the invitation of our Indian Navy," he said.
The Supreme Commander of Armed Forces was confident that the message of friendship and goodwill of the visiting navies strengthens India's belief in promoting peace, prosperity and stability for mutial co-existence and ensuring secure seas. He urged the visiting naval delegations to carry back India's message of global peace and brotherhood, to their countries and ensure strengthening the bonds of friendship to secure a better maritime environment.
"Navies world over have conducted fleet reviews to symbolise their loyalty, allegiance to the nation and strengthening bonds between the sailors and the State. IFR 2016 does that much and much more", the President said. He further felt that the event has brought together the Navies across the world, signifying the common desire to use the seas to promote peace, cooperation and friendship to develop partnership for a secure maritime future.
Pranab Mukherhee complimented the Indian Navy, especially the Eastern Naval Command, for the meticulous planning and flawless conduct of the Fleet Review. He also thanked and congratulated the Andhra Pradesh government and the citizens of Visakhapatnam for their cooperation.