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Chinese navy may participate in fleet review

Josy Joseph in New Delhi

Chiefs of at least five premier naval forces will be in Bombay for the spectacular International Fleet Review, consisting of a variety of warships, naval bands and other displays scheduled to take place in February next year.

The Indian Navy hopes to convert the review into a stunning show of naval diplomacy, lining up ships from over two dozen foreign navies along with that of India, against the backdrop of Gateway of India.

Among the countries whose participation is expected is China, which has traditionally been a reluctant participant in maritime diplomacy with India.

Chinese navy officials told their Indian counterparts at Shanghai that they would definitely be participating in the review.

The review will take place in the Bombay Seas from February 15 to 20, 2001, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Indian republic. The theme of the review will be 'Bridges of Friendship'.

Of the 22 navies that have confirmed their participation are the US, the UK, Russia, Australia, Japan, Kenya, Oman, Malaysia and most countries in the Indian Ocean rim. "We had invited 62 countries, and are still awaiting confirmation from some more, including specifics about ships etc of the Chinese," officials in the naval headquarters said.

The Navy is also hopeful of the participation of Israel, New Zealand and Belgium in the review.

A total of over 80 ships would be attending the review, stretching over five days, with band concerts, sports competitions, cultural programmes, an international seminar, a parade through Marine Drive and a spectacular fleet review by the President of India in the sea.

The presidential yacht, Sukanya, would carry the Head of State through the assembly of ships outside Gateway of India, while he takes salute.

The review will also be attended by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Foreign Minister Jaswant Singh, Defence Minister George Fernandes and other dignitaries. The prime minister will also release a commemorative stamp on the occasion.

A variety of naval aircraft would also hold a flypast over Marine Drive.

"Most of the programmes will be open to the public," say naval officials.

When the ships leave Bombay after the review, the Navy proposes to hold a symbolic exercise with all of them, ending it all with a ceremonial line-up for a photo opportunity in the midseas.

The Navy says the review would cost about Rs 3 crore. Though officially it maintains that the money should not be a problem, sources insist that the Navy is finding it difficult to "viably meet the expenses, without affecting our annual outlay".

The Navy is currently hunting for professional sponsors.

Recently, Chief of Naval Staff Adm Sushil Kumar had told reporters in New Delhi that the review would be a "an opportunity to showcase India's maritime potential."

He said its aim was to explore the possibility of establishing stability and harmony, and improving relations with other navies, through continuous interaction in peacetime.

"Nariman Point is one of the largest natural galleries, and it would be possible for thousands to witness the event," the Navy chief said.

The review would also include an exhibition showcasing India's maritime heritage from the Indus Valley civilization to the present day. The exhibition would be held at the AEC Building near Gateway.

India has been a leader in maritime diplomacy in the Indian Ocean rim, with numerous visits to neighbouring countries. The constant interaction has also been helpful in boosting strikes against sea pirates, say naval sources.

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