New Delhi [India], September 10 (ANI): At the latest assembly of heads of Asian coast guards the place India performs a crucial position, the contributors held vital and in depth discussions on necessary points comparable to maritime regulation enforcement, and stopping illicit trafficking of medication, people and weapons smugglings at sea.
“During the Heads of Asian Coast Guard Agencies Meeting (HACGAM) held in Turkiye from September 5-9, various issues of significance, such as maritime law enforcement, safety and security of life at sea, marine environment protection, illicit trafficking of drugs, weapons and humans at sea etc werediscussed,” Indian Coast Guard officers mentioned.
The four-member ICG delegation was led by DG Rakesh Pal, Director General Indian Coast Guard. This assembly was an annual occasion hosted by one of many members in rotation and ICG hosted the final version (18th) of HACGAM at New Delhi in 2022.
HACGAM is an impartial discussion board with 23 member Coast Guard Agencies and two affiliate members..
This multilateral discussion board is an offshoot of the Japanese initiative to advertise cooperation amongst regional Coast Guards, after the seize of the pirated vessel MV Alondra Rainbow by the Indian Coast Guard in Nov 1999. HACGAM primarily focuses on fostering cooperation between the Coast Guards of the member Asian states to make sure and promote protected, safe and clear seas within the area. HACGAM includes of 4 Working Groups to allow a centered and goal-oriented method in the direction of coordinated response and synergy in the direction of frequent maritime points. Indian Coast Guard is the chair of the Search and Rescue (SAR) Working Group and a proactive member of the opposite Working Groups which embody Environmental Protection, Controlling Unlawful Acts at Sea and Information sharing.
This platform will go a great distance in enhancing maritime cooperation between the Asian Coast Guards. The assembly is witnessing the participation of heads of Coast Guards of all member nations. (ANI)