Cooperate, don't compete in responding to challenges on seas: Modi

Visakhapatnam: Global navies need to cooperate not compete to secure oceans to propel the economy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday as representatives from 50 navies participated in the International Fleet Review.

"I believe that if oceans were to propel our economies, then we must use seas to build peace, friendship and trust, and curb conflict, respect and ensure freedom of navigation; and cooperate, not compete in responding to the challenges in the seas," Modi said as the Indian Navy displayed its power, which was followed by a colourful parade by contingents from India and international navies.

"The large presence of foreign navies at this Fleet Review is a confirmation of our shared urge to walk the pathways of peace and cooperation to keep the maritime domain safe and secure," Modi said.

"The oceans and world's waterways are global commons. Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam -- the concept of whole world as a family -- is perhaps most vividly witnessed on the oceans of the planet, that connect us all."

Modi said India will host the first ever Global Maritime Summit in April this year.

"To build on the gains from today's gathering, India would host the first ever Global Maritime Summit in April this year.

"Its priority would be to scale up and strengthen the vibrant trade, investment, technology and commercial linkages between India and other maritime nations," he said.

The prime minister also released a photo essay book on the "Maritime Heritage of India".

On Sunday, the Indian Navy's three-dimensional capabilities in water, air and land were on display at the R.K. Beach here, as the navy presented an 'Op Demo' showcasing the multi-dimensional operational tasks undertaken by its various arms.

The demonstration included high-speed manoeuvres by frontline warships, including launch and recovery of aircraft by aircraft carriers Vikramaditya and Viraat, special operations by Marine commandos and a fly-past.

This was be followed by firing of weapons by ships and aircraft taking part in the event.

The penultimate event was sky-diving.

Marching contingents from the navy, army, air force, Andhra Pradesh Police, National Cadet Corps, foreign navies as well as bands from the three services and visiting countries then participated in the International City Parade.