How Did Seychelles Welcome the Indian Navy's Training Squadron Ships?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- First Training Squadron ships include INS Tir, INS Shardul, and CGS Sarathi.
- Ceremonial reception hosted by the Indian Navy in Seychelles.
- Yoga sessions were part of community engagement activities.
- Visit underscores bilateral relations between India and Seychelles.
- Focus on maritime cooperation and cultural exchanges.
Victoria, Sep 2 (NationPress) As the vessels of the First Training Squadron (1TS) of the Indian Navy, including INS Tir, INS Shardul, and CGS Sarathi, arrived at Port Victoria in Seychelles, the Charge d'Affaires from the High Commission of India, alongside senior officers from the First Training Squadron, organized an onboard reception on Tuesday. This event was graced by the nation's Chief of Defence Forces, Major General Michael Rosette, and Seychelles' Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism Sylvestre Radegonde.
The Indian High Commission in Seychelles reported, "The Cd'A of the High Commission of India, along with senior officers from the 1st Training Squadron and the commanding officers of the ships, hosted a reception. The event was attended by Major General Michael Rosette, Minister Sylvestre Radegonde, Minister of Internal Affairs Errol Fonseka, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and the Indian diaspora."
Earlier in the day, the First Training Squadron arranged a unique onboard yoga session, which saw enthusiastic participation from local residents and members of the Indian community. Photos shared by the Indian High Commission showcased participants engaging in yoga aboard the ship.
On the previous day, the commanding officers of the First Training Squadron paid a visit to the Charge d'Affaires, presenting him with the crest of their visiting ship. They also met with Major General Michael Rosette and Brigadier Jean Attala to discuss the ships' involvement in various planned activities during this operational turnaround.
Moreover, the commanding officers interacted with Minister Sylvestre Radegonde to discuss enhancing maritime cooperation.
The vessels from the First Training Squadron of the Indian Navy are currently on a long-range training mission in the South West Indian Ocean Region.
The ships' arrival was ceremoniously welcomed by the Seychelles Defence Force (SDF) band, underlining the strong maritime relations between the two nations. The Indian Navy's ceremonial Guard and Band were equally represented onboard the 1TS.
During this port call, professional exchanges, cross-deck visits, and training sessions with SDF personnel are scheduled. Additionally, cultural exchanges, community engagement through yoga sessions, a Naval Band performance, sports matches, and social outreach initiatives are part of the agenda as mentioned in the press release.
This deployment marks the third port visit of Indian Navy ships to Seychelles in 2025, showcasing the Indian Navy's commitment to robust bilateral engagement and maritime partnerships, aligned with the broader vision of MAHASAGAR in the Indian Ocean Region.