The IONS Conclave of Chiefs, now in its eighth year, was held in Bangkok, Thailand, from December 19th through the 22nd, 2023.

This momentous occasion was attended by senior delegates and chiefs of naval forces from twenty-seven member and observer nations.

Indian ocean

Finalizing the Work Plan and Transitioning Leadership

A detailed two-year action plan was finalized and Thailand was installed as Chair of IONS during the Conclave.

The adoption of an Indian flag design as the official IONS flag is a significant development. For the next cycle, India will also be co-chairing the IONS Working Groups on Maritime Security and HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief).

The number of members and observers in IONS has increased to 34 (25 Members & 09 Observers) with the addition of the Republic of Korea Navy.

Engaging in Mutual Maritime Conversations

Admiral R. Hari Kumar met with delegation heads from a number of nations at the Conclave’s off-site events, including the following: Russia, the Maldives, Spain, Iran, France, Iran, Italy, and Bangladesh.

Bilateral marine issues, enhancing ties and collaboration, and related topics were the main topics of the discussions.

An International Conference on Sea Cooperation (IONS)

The Indian Navy came up with the idea for IONS in 2008 and has been using it ever since to improve maritime cooperation among the littoral governments of the Indian Ocean.

In order to promote mutual understanding and cooperative approaches, it allows for dialogue on maritime matters of regional importance.