Indian Coast Guard participated in the 19th Heads of Asian Coast Guard Agencies Meeting (HACGAM) from 05-08 Sep 2023 at Istanbul, Turkey. A four-member ICG delegation led by DG Rakesh Pal, Director General Indian Coast Guard took part in the annual event of the independent forum with 23 members of Coast Guard Agencies and 02 associate members in the form of ReCAAP (Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia and UNODC (The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime).
The 19th Heads of Asian Coast Guard Agencies Meeting (HACGAM) convened to address pressing issues related to maritime law enforcement, safety and security of life at sea, marine environment protection, and the illicit trafficking of drugs, weapons, and humans at sea. The event witnessed the participation of the heads of Coast Guards from all member nations, setting the stage for meaningful discussions and cooperation.
The HACGAM, an offshoot of a Japanese initiative, was established to foster cooperation among regional Coast Guards. It was inspired by the capture of the pirated vessel MV Alondra Rainbow by the Indian Coast Guard in November 1999. This initiative aimed to ensure and promote safe, secure, and clean seas in the Asian region.
During the three-day High-Level Meeting in Istanbul, a wide range of critical maritime issues was discussed, with a focus on finding collaborative solutions. The key agenda items included:
At the end of the Heads of Asian Coast Guard Agencies Meeting, a collective determination to enhance maritime cooperation in the Asian region was affirmed. To ensure a targeted and purpose-driven approach, HACGAM features four dedicated Working Groups, each tackling distinct maritime challenges. These Working Groups include:
The successful conclusion of the 19th Heads of Asian Coast Guard Agencies Meeting marks another step forward in promoting regional maritime security and cooperation. The Indian Coast Guard’s active involvement and leadership in various Working Groups highlight its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of Asian waters.
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