Kochi (Kerala) [India], August 30 : The 'Emerging Leaders Panel Discussion' under the aegis of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) was successfully held at Southern Naval Command, Indian Navy's 'Emerging Leaders Panel Discussion' sees participation from 19 countries , from August 27-28, the Ministry of Defence said in an official statement on Friday.
As per the Ministry of Defence, the event brought together delegates from 19-member countries, thereby providing an inclusive platform for young naval leaders to exchange ideas, share experiences, and deliberate on the future of maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.
Vice Admiral V Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, delivered the Keynote address, hence setting the stage for thought-provoking discussions. His address underlined the Indian Navy's commitment to fostering dialogue, mutual trust, and cooperative security across the Indian Ocean Region.
The two-day event included four thematic sessions. The opening session examined the Strategic Importance of the Indian Ocean Region and the Challenges faced from the Perspective of Young Officers. It highlighted key issues in safeguarding IOR, maritime trade security, climate impact, and geopolitical dynamics while also capturing the innovative perspectives of young officers on how these challenges might be addressed, the statement observed.
In addition to the panel discussions, cultural and social interactions were conducted that allowed participants to experience Kerala's maritime heritage while building personal camaraderie. Blend of professional dialogue and informal engagement enriched the overall exchange of ideas.
The two-day discussions concluded with a strong consensus on enhancing maritime domain awareness, technological partnerships, and shared training initiatives. Delegates reaffirmed IONS's role as a voluntary, inclusive initiative dedicated to strengthening collective maritime security through dialogue and collaboration, the statement highlighted.
Sharing the details in a post on X, the Indian Navy said, " 'Emerging Leaders Panel Discussion' under the aegis of IONS conducted at Southern Naval Command from 27-28 Aug 25. The event brought together delegates from 19 member countries, providing an inclusive platform for young Naval leaders to exchange ideas, share experiences and deliberate on the future of maritime cooperation in IOR. VAdmV Srinivas FOCINC SNC in his keynote address underlined Indian Navy's commitment to fostering dialogue, mutual trust and cooperative security across IOR."
https://x.com/indiannavy/status/1961423245321933310
The Emerging Leaders Panel Discussions, thus concluded with all member nations renewing their commitment to work together for peace, prosperity and security in the Indian Ocean Region.