Dec 13, Colombo: Sri Lanka, being an important player and stakeholder with its strategic location in the Indian Ocean, will address the issues regarding the safety and security of the region today at a conference on maritime security.

The "Galle Dialogue 2012" maritime conference organized by the Sri Lanka Navy under the aegis of the Ministry of Defence, and Urban Development will commence today at the Light House Hotel in the historic southern port city of Galle.

The two-day conference from December 13-14 under the theme "Strategic Maritime Cooperation and Partnerships to Face the Future with Confidence" will focus on the cooperation and partnerships of participating nations to strengthen the security and safety of the Indian Ocean as many nations depend on the stability of the vital ocean.

The conference theme reflects the concept that achieving maritime security and prosperity is not the responsibility of a singular country but of all interested nations and partners embodying a whole of government approach.

Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa will deliver the Keynote Address. External Affairs Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris will deliver the main speech in the morning session.

Vice Admiral Su Zhiqian Commander of the East Sea Fleet, PLA Navy, China Vice Admiral Ray Griggs of Royal Australian Navy, Vice Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah,HI - Commander of Pakistan Fleet and Vice Chief of the Naval Staff of Indian Navy Vice Admiral RK Dhowan are among scheduled speakers at the conference today.

The conference, with participation of local and foreign defence experts from over 30 countries, will conclude tomorrow.