Visakhapatnam: In pursuance of India’s Act East policy and demonstration of India’s commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region, Naval ships Satpura and Kadmatt entered Port Laem Chabang in Thailand on Friday. During the five-day visit, both ships will represent India in the International fleet review (IFR) being organised at Pattaya Bay to comemorate the 50th anniversary of ASEAN.
This year, India also celebrates the 25th anniversary of partnering ASEAN and 70 years of diplomatic relations with Thailand. The Indian delegation is being led by Vice Admiral Karambir Singh, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command. The Admiral will call on the Chief of the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) and other high ranking government officials in Thailand and engage with leaders from other countries during his stay there.
The Royal Thai Navy is hosting the IFR, wherein over 40 warships from ASEAN and partner nations are expected to participate. In addition to various operational and technological demonstrations, numerous cultural events are also scheduled in conjunction with the fleet review. These include an air race, a traditional swan boats cup and a Navies city parade at Pattaya Beach.
India shares a special bond with Thailand and this is reflected in the cooperation between the two Navy’s. Both Navy’s have regularly conducted Coordinated Patrols (CORPAT) in the Andaman Sea twice a year since 2005 and so far, 23 CORPATs have been conducted. India has also been at the forefront of all initiatives by the ASEAN, since inception.
India’s ‘Look East’ and ‘Act East’ policies have been a perfect conjugate to ASEAN’S endeavours. Ships of the Indian Navy are deployed every year to ASEAN countries and symbolise India’s commitment to her partners. Bilateral exercises with these countries enhance interoperability and forge shared perceptions.
