514/2024-2025

Aizawl, the 24th March, 2025: Mizoram Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd), graced the inaugural session of the the Indo-Pacific Peace Forum 2025 (IPPF 1.0) under the theme 'Peace and Security in the Indo-Pacific Region: Significance of Ideas and Thoughts' as the Chief Guest on March 19, 2025. The two-day event, held from March 19-20, 2025 took place at the India International Center in New Delhi, bringing together a diverse group of students, scholars, academicians, diplomats and dignitaries.

In his keynote address, General (Dr) Vijay  Kumar Singh (Retd) highlighted the critical interplay between peace, growth and security, emphasizing their significance in shaping practical strategies for the development of the Indo-Pacific region. He also invoked Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative as a visionary geopolitical framework for maritime cooperation stressing that this initiative addresses contemporary concerns such as technological threats, cyber security  challenges and evolving economic paradigms, offering a comprehensive roadmap for regional stability and growth. 

The conference underscored the concept of 'Thought  Leadership' or the 'Power of Ideas' as the cornerstone for fostering future leadership in the Indian sub-continent. The conference featured distinguished diplomats, ambassadors, Indian Administrative Service officers, Defence Service personnel and esteemed scholars.

Various panel sessions addressed crucial  issues such as Geopoliics, Security and the Economic Landscape;  The Role of the Indian Diaspora in Promoting Peace and Security in  the Indo-Pacific Region; Maritime Security, Trade and Transport; The One Korea Campaign and Relevant Peace Initiatives; Prospects for Peace in the Indo-Pacific and The Blue Economy, Sustainable  Development Goals (SDGs) and Regional Development. 

The conference concluded with the New Delhi Declaration, presented by Dr. Markandey Rai, Chairman of the Indo Pacific Peace Forum and Global Peace Foundation emphasizing diplomatic dialogue, economic partnerships, and regional cooperation. He proposed creating an Advisory Council for future initiatives and announced the release of a book compiling research papers from the conference. The event reaffirmed a commitment to collaboration for long-term peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.