Indian Coast Guard Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) ICGS Varaha made a significant port call at Maputo Port, Mozambique on 14 February, 2024 as a part of ongoing strategic overseas deployment to East Africa, marking a pivotal milestone in the ongoing diplomatic maritime engagements.

During its three-day visit, the crew of ICGS Varaha will participate in a series of professional interactions in the field of Marine Pollution Response (MPR), Maritime Search and Rescue (M-SAR) and Maritime Law Enforcement including cross-deck training, call on to various Mozambique Naval and maritime agencies officials, sports fixtures, joint yoga sessions, tabletop exercises and Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Mozambique Naval Forces. The visit of ICGS Varaha, an indigenously built Offshore Patrol Vessel to East African countries also aims to showcase Indian shipbuilding industry prowess and capabilities furthering the concept of “Aatmnirbhar Bharat”.

Additionally, the National Cadet Corps (NCC) embarked onboard the ICG ship and will be undertaking a Beach Cleanup drive in coordination with a local youth organization at Maputo towards the Government's initiative “Puneet Sagar Abhiyan” to provide it an international outreach. The collaborative efforts aim to further strengthen the ties between the Indian Coast Guard and their counterparts in Mozambique.

This overseas deployment aligns with the Indian Coast Guard’s commitment to fostering bilateral relationships and enhancing international cooperation with Foreign Friendly Countries (FFCs). Notably, before this visit, ICGS Varaha had made port calls to Mombasa, Kenya, demonstrating a seamless continuation of diplomatic maritime engagements in the African region.

The visit to Maputo holds great significance as it reinforces bilateral relationships with key maritime agencies. These longstanding relationships are integral to ensuring the safety, security, and environmental sustainability of the seas in the region, while also addressing contemporary maritime challenges.

The deployment of ICGS Varaha to East Africa exemplifies India’s commitment to fostering warm and cordial relations with African countries.   The overarching goal is to promote friendly relations through maritime cooperation, aligning with India’s maritime vision encapsulated in “SAGAR – Security and Growth for All in the Region” and the concept of “Global South.”

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ABB/Anand

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