Seminar on Navy's influence, foreign co-operation initiatives

A seminar on 'The Influence of Indian Navy in the Indian Ocean Region and Foreign Cooperation Initiatives to Enhance the Indian Navy's Reach' was held here today.
The seminar, held at the INHS Asvini Auditorium in Colaba, was attended by officers from the Western Naval Command as well as research scholars and staff of the Maritime History Society and Mumbai University.
Vice Admiral SPS Cheema, Flag Officer
Commanding-in-Chief Western Naval Command, was the Chief Guest.
K C Singh, a renowned expert in international affairs and ex-Ambassador to UAE and Iran, delivered the key note address.
In his opening address, Vice Admiral Cheema outlined the diplomatic role of the Indian Navy, especially in the strategic arena of Indian Ocean Region.

He brought out the recent achievements of the Navy in its foreign cooperation endeavours and stressed on the need for further engagement with our maritime neighbours, an official release said.

He apprised the audience of numerous requests being received from Navies across the world to conduct exercises with the Indian Navy, indicating a shift in the India's standing as a stabilising factor in the region.
Singh brought out current developments such as formation of soft alliances in the Indian Ocean region. He also emphasised the significance of soft power projection by the Indian Navy.
Apprising the audience of the significance of visits of Naval ships to foreign countries, he explained the role Navy plays in achieving the country's strategic and national aims overseas.