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Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually chair an open debate on maritime security at the United Nations Security Council on August 9, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Tuesday.</p>
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It will be the first time that an Indian Prime Minister will preside over an open debate at the world body.</p>
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Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said in a tweet, &quot;PM @narendramodi will Chair Open Debate on &#39;Maintenance of international peace and security: Maritime security&#39; in virtual mode @UN #SecurityCouncil on 9th August. This will be the 1st time an Indian Prime Minister will preside over Open Debate.&quot;</p>
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On August 1, India took over the rotating presidency for the month at the 15-nation UN Security Council, and on January 1, India began its two-year tenure as a non-permanent member of the UNSC. It is India&#39;s seventh term.</p>
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India has planned high-level engagements with the world community on key focus issues like maritime security, peacekeeping and counter-terrorism during the month of August.</p>
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India has been in the forefront in helping friendly countries in pursuit of the country&#39;s &#39;Act East&#39; policy and to enhance military cooperation with the friendly countries.</p>
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The Indian Navy undertakes regular deployments to friendly foreign countries and in the Indian and Pacific Ocean regions in furtherance of the Prime Minister&#39;s initiative of &#39;Security and Growth for All in the Region&#39; (SAGAR).</p>
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Such engagements build &#39;Bridges of Friendship&#39; and strengthen international cooperation.</p>
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These maritime initiatives enhance synergy and coordination between the Indian Navy and friendly countries, based on common maritime interests and commitment towards &#39;Freedom of Navigation&#39; at sea.</p>
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Besides regular port calls, Indian Navy operates in conjunction with the friendly navies to build military relations and develop interoperability in the conduct of maritime operations.</p>
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