What Did Naval Officers of India and Kenya Discuss?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strengthened ties between India and Kenya through naval cooperation.
- Aboard INS Shardul, a deck reception was held to celebrate this partnership.
- Joint training activities included a Maritime Partnership Exercise and a Passage Exercise.
- The visit emphasizes the spirit of MAHASAGAR for regional security and growth.
- Both nations aim for mutual advancement in maritime security.
Mombasa, Sep 28 (NationPress) The Senior Officer of the First Training Squadron (1TS) and Commanding Officers (COs) from visiting Indian naval vessels had a productive meeting with Kenyan Navy Commander Major General Paul Owuor Otieno on Sunday, focusing on topics of mutual interest.
The Indian Navy's spokesperson shared on social media that a deck reception was held aboard the Indian Naval Ship Shardul, enhancing the ties and maritime cooperation between India and Kenya.
“Strengthening the India-Kenya Maritime Ties! Senior Officer #1TS and COs of visiting ships met with Major General Paul Owuor Otieno, Kenya Navy Commander, to discuss topics of mutual interest. A reception on board # INS Shardul further reinforced the deep-rooted historical connections and maritime cooperation between our nations, showcasing the Bridges of Friendship between India and Kenya,” stated the Indian Navy spokesperson on X.
The vessels from the First Training Squadron (1TS) -- INS Tir, INS Sujata, INS Shardul, and ICGS Sarathi -- made a port call in Mombasa on September 25.
The Kenyan Navy, along with the Defence Advisor and the Acting High Commissioner of India, warmly welcomed the Squadron.
In a statement released on September 26, the Ministry of Defence mentioned, “The ships are currently engaged in a long-range training deployment to the South West Indian Ocean Region, having previously visited Seychelles, Mauritius, La Reunion, and Mozambique.”
During this port call, personnel from both navies will participate in a variety of professional and social activities, including joint training exercises, a Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX), and a Passage Exercise (PASSEX).
The visit will also feature a joint yoga session, a collaborative performance by the Indian and Kenyan Navy Bands, and community outreach initiatives in Mombasa.
“The aim of the visit by 1TS is to further enhance the maritime partnership and collaborative efforts between both navies, highlighting the spirit of MAHASAGAR -- Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions,” stated the Ministry of Defence.
“As maritime neighbors, the relationship between India and Kenya has evolved into a robust and multifaceted partnership, characterized by regular high-level exchanges, increasing trade and investment, and extensive people-to-people interactions,” according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).