79 countries for International Fleet Review
Come February 6, the Bay of Bengal off Visakhapatnam would be packed with warships belonging several foreign countries which would be participating at the International Fleet Review.
President, Prime Minister to attend
Visakhapatnam: Come February 6, the Bay of Bengal off Visakhapatnam would be packed with warships belonging several foreign countries which would be participating at the International Fleet Review. The President Pranab Mukherjee, who is the supreme commander, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defense Minister and heads of foreign dignitaries would be attending. This is for the second time International Fleet Review is taking place in India. The first was held in Mumbai in 2001.
Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief , Eastern Naval Command Vice Admiral Satish Soni said of 79 countries which have been invited, 17 have confirmed their participation. Around 40 ships would be participating, the vice admiral said.
People can also witness the extravaganza which would include a fly-past at the Beach Road, among other major events. The local people witnessed the Presidential Fleet Review held at Visakhapatnam in 2006 which can be considered as a prelude to the International Fleet Review to be held in 2016.
Around 60 ships from over 22 nations including USA, UK, Japan and Australia participated in the 2001 International Fleet Review . International seminars on maritime issues, security, sports, band concerts and other events will be lined up for the maritime nations participating in the Fleet Review.
