In an effort to further enhance ties with Kenya, Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ship Varaha, an Offshore Patrol Vessel, arrived at Port Mombasa for a three-day, on Monday as part of the overseas deployment of ICG ships, Coast Guard officials said here on Tuesday.
The primary objectives of the visit are to strengthen long-standing diplomatic ties, enhance maritime cooperation, and promote interoperability with the Kenya Coast Guard Services (KCGS) and other maritime agencies.
The itinerary includes professional interactions such as onboard training and lectures on Visit, Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) and
Maritime Search and Rescue (M-SAR), cross-deck visits, joint yoga sessions, planning conferences, and table-top exercises for Marine Pollution Response (MPR).
Activities during the port call involve Courtesy Calls by the Commanding Officer on various dignitaries and government officials of Kenya, including the Kenya Coast Guard Services.
Kenya and India have historically maintained warm and friendly bilateral relations, sharing common values and diverse cultures. Regular interactions between ICG and KCGS occur through ICG ship visits and various capacity building programmes.
The overseas deployment of ICG ships aligns with the organization’s plan to foster bilateral relationships and strengthen international cooperation with Foreign Friendly Countries (FFCs).
During this Africa deployment, the ship is also scheduled to make port calls in Maputo, Mozambique and Dar-e-Salam, Tanzania.
This visit plays a crucial role in strengthening bilateral relationships with key
maritime agencies, including the Kenya Coast Guard Services (KCGS), Mozambique Navy and Tanzaian Naval forces.