(23 June 2016) Rear Admiral's Interview in ChosunIlbo
http://news.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2016/06/23/2016062300216.html

On 22 June in the strong rain at Busan Navy Base located at Yongho-Dong NamguBusan, India flags were flying at mastheads of three Indian Naval Ships, Sahyadri, Shakti and Kirch. Boarding on the INS Sahyadri, a 142 meter-long frigate, I could hear the vibrant rhythm of Bollywoodmusic and smell the scent of boiling turmeric (spice for curry). The command of the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, Rear Admiral Bhokare welcomed me, a reporter from ChosunIlbo, with a broad smile.

Three Indian Naval Ships, Sahyadri, Shakti and Kirch have arrived at Busan Port yesterday. INS Sahyadi, a frigate equipped with a wide range of advanced armaments, is named after the Sahyadri range commonly called Western Ghats. INS Kirch, a Kora-class corvette, named after the legendary sword from ancient India's history. INS Shakti served as the fuel and logistics tanker to destroyers, and Shakti means 'strength'. INS Sahyadri visited South Korea last October at Incheon Port.

"In English, a ship is called 'she'.Our three Indian Naval Ships, Sahyadri, Shakti and Kirchare Indian girl Group, composed of three members, who bring South Korea and India closer," saidthe command of the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, Rear Admiral Bhokare who came with 680 Indian navy officers and sailors. As he said, Indian Navy officers of the Eastern Fleet and Korean navy engage in professional interactions, joint search and rescue trainings, and cultural interactions during her 4-day visits.

In the evening, a 'Dinner Reception' on board the INS Sahyadri was held. Indian cuisines including Indian bread naan, glossy biryani and traditional Indian menus were served for the invited citizens of Busan and dignitaries. Indian navy band played a Korean song 'BusanGalMaeGi,' lightening the mood. At the end of the performance of 'the Bhangra boys from Punjap,' U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Mark Lippert, who came with his son Sejoon, enjoyed dancing with the Bhangra boys.

Yesterday, June 21, Indian navy and South Korean navy participated in a 'Yoga practice' on board the INS Sahyadri to celebrate 'International Day of Yoga' which was declared by the United Nations. Rear Admiral Bhokare, whose wife is yoga instructor, said, 'It was one of the moments that showed two countries' deep friendship.

The Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Navy is one of its three major formations, and is the first established formation. Rear Admiral Bhokare said, "Our visit to South Korea as special envoys of India reflects the message of India seeking to enhance bilateral cooperation." India has valued its East Police. And since PM Modi assumed office, the East Policy has gained momentum and came up with new active slogan 'Act East' from past 'Look East' slogan. By strengthening bilateral relations in defense section will contribute to ensuring global peace. Recently, India is expanding its radius of coverage further from Indian Ocean to Pacific Ocean and strengthening defense relations with US, Japan, Australia and Pacific counties. India might join the group of the nations which aiming to restrain China. Regarding terrestrial disputes, he answered, "Ensuring the freedom of the seas has deep implications for all of us."

Busan, the vibrant and great city of South Korea that has long been the center of trade and strategic military point, is like brother city to port city Vishakhapatnam in East of India. That makes Busan even friendlier place to me, "said Rear Admiral Bhokare.