The International Maritime Conference, “Galle Dialogue 2016”, organized by the Sri Lanka Navy partnered with the Ministry of Defence, will get underway at the Galle Face Hotel, Colombo on 28th and 29th November 2016 for the seventh consecutive year. Local and foreign scholars and experts in naval and maritime affairs representing 40 countries and 12 International organizations will share their expertise and discuss matters of professional interest at the two-day dialogue held under the theme, “Fostering Strategic Maritime Partnerships”. His Excellency the President Maithripala Sirisena will grace the occasion as the Chief Guest and the Prime Minister Hon. RanilWickremasinghe as the Guest of Honour. Further, 7 Naval Chiefs will be among the distinguished participants that will include over 120 foreign delegates.
The maritime domain holds enormous potential for collective prosperity of Sri Lanka. Its resources, however, have to be harnessed by rightful means, taking the maritime interests of all concerned nations into account. Regional stability, a vital component of our economic survival and world peace, can be best preserved when bilateral and multilateral partnerships are made in collaboration with all stakeholders. The Sri Lanka Navy, under the aegis of the Ministry of Defence, has taken steps in sharing knowledge and addressing matters common to maritime nations. The flagship annual event of Sri Lanka Navy, 'Galle Dialogue International Maritime Conference' provides an ideal platform to discuss issues and deliberate different perspectives on an equal footing in this regard.
The visionary leadership of His Excellency the President has provided all required strength and confidence to continue the initiative for the seventh consecutive year. Under the able-guidance of the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, Vice Admiral Ravindra Wijegunaratne, the Galle Dialogue International Maritime Conference will enormously help Sri Lanka Navy to reach new heights through fruitful collaboration with similar stakeholders to ensure a broader consensus for safe and secure seas.
Moreover, this year’s conference will pave the way for workable mechanisms that would effectively address today's maritime challenges and the contribution of distinguished delegates will help clear many obstacles that stand in the way to the much desired destination.
Viewers can obtain updates of this mega event by logging onto the conference web site www.galledialogue.lk
