The Indo-Pacific Armies Management Seminar (IPAMS) serves as an important platform for military leaders to share insights, exchange best practices, and strengthen partnerships. This was emphasized by Fiji Land Force Commander Brigadier-General Onisivoro Covunisaqa during the 48th annual IPAMS seminar held in Nadi on Tuesday. Fiji last hosted this seminar in 2006.
Brigadier-General Covunisaqa remarked that in 2006, there was less focus on a collective approach to addressing threats in the Pacific region, but there has been a shift in mindset. He expressed gratitude to the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC) for collaborating with multiple nations and forces to address shared concerns during this conference.
General Charles Flynn, Commander of US Army Pacific, shared similar thoughts, highlighting the importance of structured forums to address issues like humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. He pointed out that land forces play a significant role in responding to crises in which countries and communities face challenges.
The conference this year centered on the theme of Joint & Combined Operations in the Indo-Pacific Region, which General Flynn described as a “unity of action” that involves the coordinated efforts of all partner forces. He expressed confidence in achieving this goal because the participating nations share a common vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
General Flynn noted a noticeable increase in the willingness of nations to participate in multilateral military activities over the last decade, aimed at discussing collaborative strategies to overcome various challenges.
IPAMS stands as the longest-running and largest multinational military seminar in the region that promotes security, peace, and cooperation throughout the Indo-Pacific area. Attendees at this year’s seminar included representatives from Australia, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, Fiji, France, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Nepal, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. The conference concluded yesterday.