The Indian Navy successfully hosted the fourth edition of the Goa Maritime Conclave (GMC) from 29th to 31st October 2023, under the auspices of the Naval War College, Goa. This conclave centred around the theme “Maritime Security in the Indian Ocean Region: Converting Common Maritime Priorities into Collaborative Mitigating Frameworks.” The theme underscores the necessity of harmonising and collaborating capacities in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) to fulfil Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region).
The event saw the participation of Ministers, Chiefs of Navies, and Heads of Maritime Forces from 12 IOR countries, including Bangladesh, Comoros, Indonesia, Madagascar, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Myanmar, Seychelles, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
Key highlights from the event included:
- Hon’ble Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh delivered the Keynote Address, emphasising the imperative need for IOR nations to synergise their efforts in countering maritime threats and challenges.
- Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture Smt Meenakshi Lekhi provided a Special Address, highlighting India’s rich maritime history and the role of maritime commons in connecting civilisations across the region. She called for cooperation and capacity building to enhance the region’s resilience and prosperity.
- Adm R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, noted that the GMC has evolved into a functional construct aimed at addressing transnational challenges in the Indian Ocean Region collaboratively.
- VAdm MA Hampiholi, FOC-in-C Southern Naval Command, welcomed all delegations and reiterated the Indian Navy’s commitment to a secure and inclusive IOR.
- Adm Arun Prakash (retd), former Chief of the Naval Staff, emphasised the value of collaboration among IOR countries in ensuring open and secure global commons. He also highlighted Indian initiatives for constructive engagement and the need to strengthen existing cooperation mechanisms.
- Detailed deliberations took place on four sub-themes, focusing on regulatory frameworks, maritime strategies, training programmes, and leveraging existing organisations for maritime competencies in the IOR.
Bilateral interactions and discussions between naval chiefs and dignitaries took place throughout the conclave. The concluding day featured discussions on the opportunities and threats in the IOR, underscoring the need for cooperation and collaboration in the pursuit of regional security and growth.
As part of India’s Aatma Nirbharta initiative, a “Make in India Exhibition” showcased the potential of India’s indigenous shipbuilding industry. Dignitaries had the opportunity to visit indigenous warships and witness the capabilities of the Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV).