The significance of Vizag in AP is well known. And soon more than 40 navies from around 50 countries will be taking part in India's mega international fleet review (IFR) which would be held off Visakhapatnam in the month of February.
According to defence sources, around 100 Indian and foreign warships including 60 aircraft and some even from China will be taking part in the event which would be a moment of reckoning for AP. Chandrababu had aggressively lobbied with Centre on this and made sure he steers ahead of Maharashtra that wanted to host this at Mumbai!
China, however, has recently confirmed its participation in the IFR from February 4 to 8th, 2015. This would be attended by President of India Pranab Mukherjee, PM Narendra Modi as well as other dignitaries. This is the second such review being held by India after the first such event was kicked off Mumbai in the year 2001.
The IFR is considered as platform for all participating navies to interact and strengthen bridges of friendship towards each other, by fostering a common appreciation of maritime challenges while also addressing them through a united approach.
