19th Heads of Asian Coast Guard Agencies Meeting
Strengthens Regional Maritime Security and Cooperation
September 14, 2023
At a gathering of maritime leaders from various parts of Asia, the Director General of the Sri Lanka Coast Guard Rear Admiral Pujitha Vithana made a noteworthy presence at the Heads of Asian Coast Guard Agencies Meeting (HACGAM) held in Istanbul, Turkey from 5th to 8th September 2023.
The prestigious event was inaugurated by Mr. Mehmet Saglam, the Deputy Minister of Interior of Turkey. HACGAM showcased the commitment of 23-member Coast Guard Agencies and two associate members, ReCAAP and UNODC, to promote maritime safety, security, and environmental protection in the Asian region.
The Sri Lankan delegation, led by Rear Admiral Pujitha Vithana, the Director General of the Sri Lankan Coast Guard, and Commander Prashan Perera, Senior Staff Officer Operations, participated actively in the discussions and initiatives presented during the meeting. The Sri Lanka Coast Guard had the distinct honour of chairing the Environment Protection Working Group, emphasising their commitment to safeguarding the seas.
HACGAM has been a cornerstone of cooperation among Asian coast guard agencies for years, offering a platform for member nations to strengthen their capabilities in various areas. The meetings, hosted by member countries in rotation, provide a unique opportunity to foster unity and devise strategies to address challenges in the maritime domain. The 19th meeting revolved around five critical areas:
- Search and Rescue at Sea
- Preventing and Controlling Unlawful Acts at Sea
- Environment Protection
- Capacity Building
- Information Sharing
The HACGAM initiative continues to demonstrate its importance in enhancing regional maritime security, cooperation, and environmental stewardship. As Asian nations strive for peace and prosperity on the high seas, this annual gathering remains an essential platform for fostering unity and addressing shared challenges. The collaborative efforts of the Asian Coast Guard agencies and their international partners shine as a beacon of hope for a safer and more secure maritime future in an era of rising maritime threats and environmental concerns.
Courtesy - coastguard.gov.lk