New Delhi: India showcased its growing maritime role at the 4th Coast Guard Global Summit (CGGS) in Rome on September 11–12, 2025. The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) reaffirmed its commitment to shaping global maritime governance and strengthening cooperation for safer seas.
India Showcases Maritime Expertise
A two-member ICG delegation, led by Director General Paramesh Sivamani, delivered a lecture titled “Guardians Against the Blaze: ICG’s Tactical Response to Fire Emergencies.” The presentation highlighted India’s operational expertise in fire emergency response and its constructive role in advancing maritime safety and security.
Bid to Host 2027 Edition
During the summit, ICG announced its intention to bid for the presidency of the 5th CGGS, scheduled to be hosted in India in 2027. This move positions India as a frontrunner to lead international dialogue on maritime security in the coming years.
Global Participation and Key Themes
The Rome summit brought together delegates from 115 countries and international organisations. Co-chaired by Italy and Japan, discussions centered on collective approaches to protect the global ocean environment. Sessions covered maritime safety, marine pollution response, disaster management, maritime security, and countering transnational crimes.
The CGGS also emphasised advanced technologies, capacity building, and human resource development to strengthen global maritime cooperation. The theme of “Guardians at Sea” underscored the need for unified action against evolving maritime threats.
Evolution of the Summit
First launched in 2017 by the Japan Coast Guard and the Nippon Foundation, the CGGS has become a key forum for maritime dialogue and confidence-building. At the 4th edition, Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba (virtually) stressed the importance of collaboration in pollution response, search and rescue, and maritime law enforcement.
If successful in its 2027 presidency bid, India will host the next edition on its shores. This step will further establish ICG as a global partner in advancing maritime governance and security.
