Maritime News : Dubai, 18 October 2024 – Indian Navy‘s INS Shardul, as part of its long-range training deployment, successfully concluded its visit to Port Rashid, Dubai, UAE, on 16 October 2024. This visit marks a significant milestone in enhancing maritime cooperation between India and the UAE, with a series of engagements aimed at fostering closer ties between the two navies.
Key Engagements during the Dubai Port Call
During the port visit, the crew of INS Shardul engaged in several key activities with the UAE Navy and local institutions. These included:
- Professional Interactions: Sea trainees aboard INS Shardul participated in organized visits to the UAE Naval Officers Training Academy and the UAE Naval Ship, engaging in professional exchanges and discussions about shared knowledge and training practices.
- Joint Training Sessions: Both navies conducted joint training exercises, which focused on improving operational readiness and mutual coordination in the maritime domain.
- Cultural and Community Outreach: The visit also featured community outreach programs, yoga sessions, and friendly sports fixtures that helped foster goodwill between the Indian Navy and the UAE Navy.
Formal Reception & Diplomacy at Sea
A formal reception was held onboard INS Shardul, where UAE Navy personnel, diplomats, and distinguished members of the Indian community were in attendance. This event served as an opportunity to further strengthen the relationship between the two nations and celebrate their growing partnership in the maritime sector.
Maritime Partnership Exercise with UAE Navy
Upon departure from Dubai, INS Shardul participated in a Maritime Partnership Exercise with the UAE Naval ship Al Quwaisat. The exercise included a series of naval maneuvers, communication drills, and coordinated movements, showcasing the operational synergy and interoperability between the Indian and UAE navies.
Strengthening India-UAE Maritime Relations
This visit of INS Shardul underscores the growing strategic maritime cooperation between India and the UAE, aligned with the vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region). It highlights India’s commitment to enhancing its partnerships in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and promoting security and stability through collaboration with regional allies.
Key Highlights:
- Professional Engagements: Visits to UAE Naval Officers Training Academy and UAE Naval Ship.
- Joint Training: Collaborative exercises and professional exchanges between the Indian and UAE navies.
- Cultural Engagements: Yoga, sports, and community outreach activities.
- Maritime Exercise: Joint maritime partnership exercise showcasing interoperability.
