Visakhapatnam

Andhra Pradesh Governor S Abdul Nazeer on Friday reviewed the International City Parade held in Visakhapatnam as part of the International Fleet Review 2026, official sources said.

The event, hosted on Thursday by Chief of the Naval Staff Dinesh K Tripathi, witnessed large public participation and showcased India’s maritime traditions through operational demonstrations, ceremonial marches and cultural presentations.

According to a statement issued by the Press Information Bureau, the Governor reviewed marching contingents drawn from the Indian Navy, Army, Air Force and Coast Guard, along with units from participating foreign navies. Cadets from the Sea Cadet Corps, National Cadet Corps and personnel from the State Police also took part in the parade.

Nazeer said the International City Parade not only underlined India’s maritime strength and professionalism but also reflected Andhra Pradesh’s expanding role in the country’s maritime and defence ecosystem. He highlighted Visakhapatnam’s strategic importance as a major maritime hub and noted that such events help build international goodwill while reinforcing India’s maritime vision in the Indo-Pacific region.

Clad in ceremonial uniforms, the contingents demonstrated shared maritime traditions, discipline and professional camaraderie, symbolising unity and cooperation among nations. The Naval Air Arm also featured in the parade, showcasing the Indian Navy’s integrated sea-air operational capabilities.

Addressing the gathering, Admiral Tripathi described the event as a rare interface between the Indian Navy, foreign naval forces and the public. He said the International City Parade reflected the spirit of global camaraderie at sea and reaffirmed navies’ shared commitment to cooperation, trust and collective maritime security.

The parade concluded with the illumination of ships anchored offshore, followed by a laser and drone show and fireworks that created a striking waterfront finale.

The International Fleet Review 2026, held under the theme ‘United Through Oceans’, reiterates India’s emphasis on maritime cooperation, interoperability and collective security, while highlighting the Indian Navy’s indigenous capabilities and enduring partnerships with like-minded navies.

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The Indian Navy said Visakhapatnam is hosting the International Fleet Review, Exercise MILAN and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium Conclave of Chiefs from February 15 to 25, marking the first time all three major maritime events are being conducted together in India.