Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, who is on an official visit to Mauritius, held discussions with senior Indian and Mauritian officials as part of efforts to further strengthen bilateral maritime cooperation and deepen operational linkages between the two countries.
During the visit, Admiral Krishna Swaminathan interacted with Shri Anurag Srivastava, High Commissioner of India to Mauritius, Mr Rampersad Sooroojebally, Commissioner of Police, Mauritius Police Force, and Mrs Kan Oye Fong Weng-Poorun, Secretary for Home and Defence Affairs, Government of Mauritius.
The discussions focused on strengthening maritime security cooperation between India and Mauritius, with particular emphasis on enhancing the capabilities of the Mauritius National Coast Guard. Capacity building remains an important component of the bilateral maritime partnership, with India supporting the development of maritime capabilities among its Indian Ocean partners.
Joint Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance was another key area discussed during the interactions. Cooperation in EEZ surveillance contributes to maritime domain awareness and helps both countries strengthen their ability to monitor and respond to activities within their respective maritime spaces.
The engagements also examined opportunities to expand operational-level linkages between the Indian Navy and Mauritius’ maritime forces. Greater interaction and coordination between the two sides can contribute to enhanced interoperability, information sharing and coordinated responses to emerging maritime security challenges.
India and Mauritius share a longstanding maritime partnership based on mutual trust, close geographical and historical ties and common interests in maintaining security and stability across the Indian Ocean Region.
The discussions during the CNS’s visit reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening maritime partnerships with friendly countries in the region. The focus on capacity building, operational cooperation and maritime security reflects India’s broader approach towards promoting a secure and stable maritime environment.
The engagements also align with the vision of MAHASAGAR, or Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions, which places emphasis on collective security, sustainable growth and stronger partnerships among countries of the Indian Ocean Region.
Admiral Krishna Swaminathan’s interactions in Mauritius are expected to further consolidate the close defence and maritime relationship between the two countries while opening avenues for expanded cooperation in maritime security, capability development and regional stability.
