The International Maritime Security Conference, “Galle Dialogue 2012”, organized by the Sri Lanka Navy under the aegis of the Ministry of Defence, concluded today, 14th December 2012 pledging support for strategic cooperation and partnership to face the future with confidence. Sixty-nine foreign delegates from 28 countries and 80 local delegates participated in the two-day dialogue, which paved the way for achieving lasting Security, Stability and Success in the Indian Ocean Region.
The following papers were presented at the Conference:
- “Role of Navies in Collective Prosperity” - Vice Admiral Ray Griggs, Chief of Royal Australian Navy
- “Partnership Building to shape Future Maritime Operations: India’s Role” - Vice Admiral RK Dhowan, Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, India
- “Deepen Common Recognition, Strengthen Cooperation and Safeguard Maritime Security Together” - Vice Admiral Su Zhiqian, Commander of the East Sea Fleet, PLA Navy, China
- “Important Areas to Consider Enhance Maritime Security for a Secure Indian Ocean” - Vice Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah, Commander Pakistan Fleet (COMPAK), Karachi, Pakistan Navy
- “The Importance to Australia of the Indian Ocean and Maritime Strategic Cooperation” - Commodore Stuart Mayer, Commodore Warfare, Royal Australian Navy
- “Maritime Security Concerns in the Indian Ocean: Sri Lanka’s Perception of Overcoming Challenges” - Rear Admiral RC Wijegunaratne, Commander Eastern Naval Area, Sri Lanka Navy
- “Towards Harmonious World and Harmonious Development” – Mr. Yan Lijin, Director of South Asia Studies Centre of Development Research Center of the State Council of China and President of CETC
- “Cooperation in Indian Ocean: an Indian Perspective” – Dr. Ashok K Behuriya, Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, New Delhi, India
- “Concerns and Challenges in Harnessing Ocean Resources: Way Forward” - Commodore Syed Abu Mansur Arshadul Abedin, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Material), Bangladesh Navy
- “Enhancing Interoperability & Cooperation in a Complex Maritime Security Environment: The RMN Experience” - Rear Admiral Dato Pahlawan Mohomad Roslan Bin Mohomad Ramli, Commander Naval Region 1, Royal Malaysian Navy
- “The Role of LTTE in People, Arms and Drug Smuggling” - Professor Rohan Gunarathna, Head of International Centre for Political Violence and Terrorism Research, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, Vice Admiral Jayanath Colombage making the concluding remarks stated that the "Galle Dialogue 2012" provided a unique opportunity to discuss common concerns in the Indian Ocean Region. All the deliberations and discussions that took place during the two-days emphasized the need for strategic cooperation and partnership. The Galle Dialogue - 2012 offered an ideal venue for all who are committed to foster the security and safety in the vital ocean space.
Lively interactions during the sessions, moderated by eminent personalities who were very conversant with the subject matter enabled various dimensions of common issues to be deliberated, the Commander stated. The collaborative efforts, he went on to add, would lead to enhance strategic maritime cooperation and partnership for regional peace and stability in the Indian Ocean region.
Sri Lanka Navy emerged victorious defeating the international maritime terrorism waged by one of the most ruthless terrorist organizations in the world and we are ready to share our battle experiences with the rest of the world for the common good of humanity, the Commander stated.
The Commander thanked Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the Secretary, Ministry of Defence and Urban Development, for the guidance given to make the event a great success. He also thanked all participants for graciously accepting the invitation amidst busy schedules and numerous commitments. The valuable contributions, he stated, made the difference and transformed the event into a unique experience. The Commander expressed his appreciation to all Sri Lanka Navy personnel involved in the conference for their tireless efforts and whole-hearted commitment to keep the "Galle Dialogue" initiative alive and its events well-organized.