Indian Coast Guard vessel concludes visit to Mozambique, strengthening maritime collaboration
The Indian Coast Guard vessel ICGS Varaha has completed a three-day visit to Mozambique and departed from Maputo for Dar es Salaam today, 9 November, under the command of Captain RS Rana.
From 6 to 9 November, the military vessel engaged in various training activities alongside the Mozambican Navy, including navigation exercises, boarding operations, bridge integration, and a tabletop search and rescue simulation.
Representatives from the Institute of Maritime Administration (INAMAR), the National Institute of Marine Transport (ITRANSMAR), and the Mozambican Navy were present at the port to observe a demonstration of pollution response equipment aboard the ICGS Varaha.
A reception was hosted on board by the Indian High Commissioner to Mozambique, Robert Shetkintong, attended by the Commander of the Mozambican Navy, Rear Admiral Bernardo Estevão Nchokomala, along with the diplomatic corps, military officials, and members of the Indian diaspora residing in Maputo.
Shetkintong emphasized that maritime cooperation serves as a fundamental pillar of defence between India and Mozambique, two nations sharing the waters of the Indian Ocean and therefore invested in regional peace and security.
In his remarks, Rear Admiral Nchokomala expressed gratitude to India for its support in enhancing the capabilities of the Mozambican Navy and voiced satisfaction with the growth and diversification of bilateral maritime cooperation.
Indian Defence Attaché Colonel Puneet Attri announced the donation of essential naval spare parts intended to extend the operational life of Mozambique’s fleet of interceptor patrol boats and fast interception vessels—assets that continue to play a crucial role in military operations in northern Mozambique.
The High Commissioner of India formally presented the donations to the Commander of the Mozambican Navy.
