The Indian Navy's First Training Squadron (1TS), consisting of INS Sujata and ICGS Veera, recently completed a three-day visit to Sihanoukville, Cambodia, and left on February 17, 2025. This visit was aimed at strengthening the bond between India and Cambodia, particularly in maritime cooperation, in line with India's vision of SAGAR (Security And Growth for All in the Region).
During their stay, the Indian Navy and the Royal Cambodian Navy (RCN) engaged in various activities to build mutual understanding and cooperation. A media interaction was held, where senior naval officers, including the commanding officers of INS Sujata and ICGS Veera, shared insights about India's efforts to foster regional maritime partnerships.
Captain Anshul Kishore, Senior Officer of 1TS, met with Admiral Tea Vinh, Commander of the Royal Cambodian Navy, at the Naval Headquarters in Phnom Penh. Their discussions, attended by other senior Cambodian naval officials, focused on areas such as training programs, joint exercises, security cooperation, and better coordination between the two navies. The Indian delegation also met with the Governor of Sihanoukville province and Rear Admiral Mey Dina, the Commander of Ream Naval Base, to further strengthen diplomatic relations.
As a gesture of friendship and defence cooperation, India presented a Small Arms Simulator to the Royal Cambodian Army. In addition, naval trainees from both nations took part in friendly sports events, helping to build camaraderie and goodwill. The Indian community in Sihanoukville was also given a guided tour of the visiting ships.
To celebrate this engagement, a special reception was hosted onboard the Indian naval vessels, attended by ambassadors, diplomats, senior Cambodian military officials, and members of the Indian diaspora. The event provided a valuable opportunity to enhance bilateral relations and mutual understanding.
This visit by the First Training Squadron reinforced India's commitment to building a strong maritime partnership with Cambodia while contributing to regional security and cooperation. (PR)