Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed India’s goal of establishing a fair maritime order based on international regulations and freedom of navigation. He emphasized the importance of global collaboration in addressing maritime issues during the inauguration of the multilateral naval exercise MILAN 2026. Singh highlighted various challenges like piracy, maritime terrorism, and climate change, stressing the necessity for navies to cooperate in tackling these threats collectively.
Singh underscored the role of the international community in managing maritime challenges effectively and urged mutual respect in addressing distinctive responsibilities. He mentioned the significance of the United Nations Convention on the Law of Seas (UNCLOS) as a robust legal framework for resolving international water-related matters and promoting peaceful co-existence among nations.
The Defence Minister advocated for a comprehensive global naval architecture to enhance information sharing, safeguard communication links, and combat criminal activities at sea, including terrorism. He praised platforms like MILAN for fostering professional expertise, trust-building, and interoperability among participating nations to address common challenges effectively.
Singh highlighted India’s commitment to maritime cooperation through initiatives like Vision MAHASAGAR, emphasizing the country’s deepening engagement with regional and global partners. He assured that India, as a reliable global friend, would continue to play a constructive role in promoting holistic maritime security and mutual prosperity through cooperation and shared commitments.
MILAN, evolving into one of the world’s leading multinational naval exercises, has seen significant growth in scope and participation. With 74 nations participating in MILAN 2026, it stands as the largest and most inclusive edition to date, showcasing India’s credibility and responsibility as a trusted maritime partner on the global stage.
