Indian Navy's INS Suvarna made a significant port call at Dar es Salaam from October 19 to 21, as part of its Operational Turnaround during her ongoing anti-piracy deployment in the Gulf of Aden. The visit focused on enhancing military cooperation and strengthening diplomatic ties between India and Tanzania, aligning with the Government of India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative.
During the visit, Commander Lalit Yadav, the Commanding Officer of INS Suvarna, met with Rear Admiral AR Hassan, Commander of the Tanzanian People’s Defence Force (TPDF) Naval Forces, and Mr. Bishwadip Dey, High Commissioner of India to Tanzania. These high-level interactions were aimed at deepening naval collaboration and fostering professional exchanges between the two countries.
The navies of India and Tanzania engaged in several joint activities, including professional interactions focused on Visit Board Search Seizure (VBSS), Damage Control, and Fire Fighting drills. Both teams also participated in friendly sports activities to further strengthen camaraderie. Additionally, INS Suvarna handed over an Infantry Weapon Training Simulator to the TPDF, a gesture symbolizing India's commitment to bolstering Tanzania's defense capabilities.
Aboard INS Suvarna, a social gathering was co-hosted by the Indian Navy and the High Commission of India for senior officials from the TPDF. Major General I.M. Mhona, Chief of Operations and Training for the TPDF, was the Chief Guest, accompanied by Rear Admiral A.R. Hassan.
The visit culminated with a joint Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance operation between INS Suvarna and the TPDF Navy, enhancing maritime security in the region.
This port call, through both operational and diplomatic engagements, underscored the growing strategic partnership between India and Tanzania, contributing to peace and stability in the Indian Ocean region.(PR)