#WATCH | Delhi: Chairman of the National Maritime Foundation and (Retd.) Chief of Naval Staff, Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, says, "We have launched the 'Andaman Dialogue Series' with its first edition scheduled for March 12–14, 2027, at Swaraj Dweep Island. Whether within the country or internationally, what we need most today is dialogue. No amount of dialogue, conversation, or cooperation is ever truly enough; the more we talk to one another—whether it is our country engaging with others, or simply exchanging ideas—the better... I believe that the participants joining the Andaman Dialogues from across the country and abroad—coming together for two or three days to discuss various issues—will foster trust. This could lead to solutions for problems facing individual nations and the entire region." Additionally, he says, "India was, is, and always will be a maritime nation. Our country is surrounded by the sea on three sides, and history confirms this; our ancestors—be it Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Chola dynasty, or numerous other kingdoms—actively promoted maritime connectivity. If you travel anywhere, especially across South Asia, you will see evidence of India's influence. 71% of the Earth's surface is covered by water. This means we have access to all those areas where water exists. Recently, at the 'Samudra Manthan' event, the PM stated that seas and oceans do not divide; rather, they connect... It is my belief—and that of many experts—that the 21st century will be a 'maritime century,' and we will strive to ensure it becomes India's maritime century... In this context, the 'Andaman Dialogues' will serve as a crucial link, allowing us to exchange views on significant issues for the benefit of all and potentially aiding in future policy formulation..."