CNS’ REMARKS OPENING CEREMONY OF MILAN – 2024 (21 FEB 24)
At the outset, I extend a very warm welcome to our guests and partners from across the oceans. Your presence here underscores the strong bonds that exists between our nations and navies. We deeply appreciate your participation at MILAN-2024.
It is a matter of singular privilege for me to welcome our Chief Guest Shri Rajnath Singh ji, Hon’ble Defence Minister of India. I would like to convey my sincere gratitude to him, for taking time out from his busy schedule to grace this occasion. Your presence here Sir, highlights the Govt. of India’s focused impetus on ‘Matters Maritime’ and reaffirms India’s commitment to ensuring ‘secure seas’, specially in the Indian Ocean Region.
The success of an event of this magnitude, being conducted in this ‘City of Destiny’ — Visakhapatnam, would not have been possible without the invaluable support of the Govt of Andhra Pradesh.
Ladies and gentlemen, the oceans as ‘global commons’ have been the binding force uniting nations and nurturing people-to-people connect
since times immemorial. Underpinned by Gol’s vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region or SAGAR which means the ‘Sea’, MILAN encapsulates as well as rejuvenates this unrelenting spirit of ‘Cohesion, Camaraderie and Collaboration.’ From five IOR navies in 1995 to 50 navies across the Indo-Pacific today, MILAN reflects the growing stature and increasing importance of such collective and cooperative endeavours in the maritime domain.
In the spirit of this shared humanity and a commitment to a safer, more collaborative maritime future, the Indian Navy looks forward to meaningful interactions, constructive engagements and positive outcomes with our friends and partners during this MILAN. Therefore, MILAN 2024 has been carefully curated to provide an all-encompassing experience to our participants. The harbour phase that commenced yesterday, has seen insightful discussions through Subject Matter Expert Exchanges and Table Top Exercises. While the International Maritime Seminar scheduled over next two days will provide senior commanders a platform to exchange ideas on crucial maritime challenges and opportunities, our young officers have been honing their sailing, submarine rescue and damage control skills at training simulators here. This year we have also organised a MILAN Technical Exposition or MTEX to provide you a glimpse of India’s promising indigenous industry powered by the vibrant Start Up ecosystem and MSMEs.
Moving to the sea phase commencing 24th Feb, we will see our warships sailing in unison and participating in a diverse array of operational drills pushing our collective boundaries and refining our skills together. These are not merely naval exercises, but a testament to the collective expertise and strength we bring to the fore as maritime nations.
In addition to professional interactions, recreational events, social gatherings, cultural tours, exhilarating sports competitions and a captivating city parade are being organised to strengthen camaraderie, create long lasting relationships and provide a flavour of India’s rich heritage and culture. I am sure, you will carry fond memories and experiences of MILAN-2024 that are professionally enriching, operationally stimulating and culturally unforgettable.
Before concluding, I would like to compliment the Eastern Naval Command for their efforts in organising this landmark event. I wish MILAN 2024 success, and once again, extend my gratitude to the Hon’ble ministers, our delegates and shipmates from across the seas, and all distinguished dignitaries who have graced this opening ceremony. Thank you.
Jai Bharat! Sam No Varunah! May the Lord of the Oceans guide us as we chart a course towards a brighter future together.
Add Comment