Retired Additional Director General VD Chafekar, former official of the Indian Coast Guard, has been appointed as the seventh Executive Director of the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia Information Sharing Centre (ReCAAP ISC) in Singapore.
He was appointed as the Executive Director by the Governing Council of ReCAAP ISC for the period from April 1, 2025 till March 31, 2028, as per a statement by the Ministry of Defence.
Chafekar's selection underscores India's steadfast commitment to fostering regional maritime security and cooperation, aligning with the vision for a safer and more secure Indo-Pacific region, a statement by the Ministry of Defence said.
In a post on X, Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs stated, " India for a safer & more secure Indo-Pacific region. Shri VD Chafekar of India has been elected as the Executive Director of Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia Information Sharing Centre (ReCAAP ISC) in a contested election featuring candidates from China and the Philippines".
Singapore High Commissioner to India, Simon Wong also extended his heartfelt greetings to Chafekar. In a post on X, Wong stated, "Our Heartiest Congratulations to Shri VD Chafekar, elected as the new ED to ReCAAP ISC in Singapore. HC Wong".
The Ministry of Defence in a post on X said, "India's nominee is appointed as the 7th Executive Director of ReCAAP ISC in Singapore, we.f. April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2028. Established in 2006, ReCAAP ISC promotes cooperation against piracy and armed robbery at sea in Asia. This appointment underscores our dedication to fostering regional maritime security and cooperation, for a safer & more secure Indo-Pacific region".
Founded in 2006, the ReCAAP ISC is the first regional government-to-government initiative aimed at promoting and strengthening cooperation to combat piracy and armed robbery at sea in Asia. It has played a crucial role in fostering information exchange, capacity building, and joint efforts to tackle maritime security issues across the region. As a key contracting party of the ReCAAP ISC, India has consistently supported and contributed to the organization's mission, utilizing its maritime expertise and resources to enhance safety and security in Asian waters.