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INDIAN COAST GUARD SHIPS ‘VAIBHAV’ AND ‘ABHIRAJ’ DEPARTED FROM SRI LANKA AFTER ‘SAGAREX’

In a significant step towards enhancing regional maritime security and cooperation, two Indian Coast Guard Ships (ICGS), Vaibhav and Abhiraj, arrived in Sri Lanka on 23rd December 2024. This goodwill visit, spanning from 23rd December 2024 to 2nd January 2025, is divided into two phases, with stops at the Port of Colombo and the Port of Galle. It highlights the growing collaboration between the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG). A series of activities have been planned to foster bilateral relations and operational synergy, ranging from joint training programmes to community engagement initiatives.

A key highlight of the visit is the joint exercise ‘SAGAREX’, focusing on critical maritime operations such as search and rescue, pollution response, and law enforcement. Other training programmes, including joint VBSS training, marine pollution response training, and fire fighting and damage control training, further strengthen the operational capabilities of both agencies. These exercises and programmes are designed to enhance interoperability and readiness to address maritime challenges effectively.

The visit also includes a range of cultural and community activities that reflect the shared commitment of the two Coast Guards to social and environmental sustainability. Friendly sports matches, such as volleyball and cricket, foster camaraderie among personnel. Additionally, a community support initiative providing essential supplies to the Sambodhi Children’s Home in Galle and beach cleanup campaigns in Colombo and Galle demonstrate the agencies' dedication to preserving marine ecosystems and contributing to the welfare of local communities.

The goodwill visit of ICGS Vaibhav and Abhiraj underscores the strong partnership between the ICG and SLCG. The series of structured engagements and collaborative initiatives reaffirm their shared commitment to maintaining a secure and prosperous maritime domain in the Indian Ocean region. This visit not only consolidates existing ties but also sets the foundation for deeper cooperation in addressing emerging maritime challenges, promoting regional stability, and enhancing the operational capacities of both agencies.