Given the strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific and China flexing its muscle in the region, the Indian Army will host a two-day conference here of Army chiefs of the Indo-Pacific nations next week with an aim to evolve a common strategy to ensure peace, prosperity and stability.
Fifteen Army chiefs and delegations from 22 countries will attend the event on September 26 and 27 and the US Army is co-hosting the conference.
The Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs’ Conclave (IPACC) will deliberate on the role of military diplomacy in mitigating various crises, ways to enhance collaboration among the armed forces of the region and boosting interoperability.
An exhibition of India’s indigenously developed weapons, military systems and platforms is also being organised on the sidelines of the event. Alongside the 13th edition of the IPACC, the Indian Army is also hosting the 47th Indo Pacific Armies Management Seminar (IPAMS) and the Senior Enlisted Leaders Forum (SELF).
Vice Chief of Army Staff Lt General M V Suchindra Kumar said here on Wednesday the event will provide a unique opportunity to build common perspectives towards a shared vision and that it will help strengthen friendships through the formidable and indelible “soldierly bond.” The IPACC, instituted as a biennial event in 1999, is attended by Army chiefs of countries of the Indo-Pacific region, to discuss issues of mutual interest.
“The current edition of this conclave is very special, as it will witness participation of full spectrum of military ranks, from Army chiefs to non-commissioned Officers from 22 nationalities, and their spouses,” Lt Gen Kumar told reporters.