Navy chief Dhowan to focus on 'Act East policy' during Singapore, Thailand visit

Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral R.K. Dhowan, shall be proceeding on a five day visit to Singapore and Thailand from July 20, aiming to consolidate the Navy to Navy cooperation and explore future avenues in further strengthening the relationship in accordance with India's 'Act East policy'.

During his visit, Admiral Dhowan is scheduled to meet various dignitaries, both in Singapore and Thailand including the Defence Minister, Chief of Defence Forces and the Chief of Navy and Commander -in-Chief of Royal Thai Navy.

Admiral Dhowan will also visit the prestigious Singapore Armed Forces Training Institute (SAFTI MI) for interaction with the faculty as well as young and middle level officers.

An overview of the operational facilities at Changi Naval base is also planned besides briefings on International Data Fusion Centre (IFC), Maritime Crisis Centre, Regional Humanitarian Assistance Disaster Relief (HADR) Coordination Centre (RHCC) and Maritime Security Task Force looking after coastal security of Singapore.

India Singapore relations date back to Cholas who are credited with naming the Island and establishing a permanent settlement.

The present engagements between the two countries span regular high level interactions including comprehensive defence cooperation.

Navy to Navy cooperation between the two countries covers almost the entire spectrum of naval operations.

Over the past two decades, with regular political exchanges, growing trade and investment, India's relationship with Thailand has now evolved into a comprehensive partnership.

India's 'Act East' policy has been complemented by Thailand's 'Look West' policy and has assisted in bringing the two countries together.

The Navy to Navy cooperation is the leading component of the defence cooperation between the two countries. Indian Navy regularly interacts with Royal Thailand Navy through Navy to Navy Staff Talks.

Both Navies also interact in multilateral fora such as Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), Western Pacific Naval Symposium (WPNS), MILAN held biennially at Port Blair. Indian Navy and Thai Navy conduct Coordinated Patrolling (CORPAT) across International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) twice a year.

Exchange of best practices and experiences and cooperation in Meteorology / Tsunami warning is another area wherein both navies cooperate.