INS Sunayna enhances maritime cooperation with Mauritius

Mauritius recently hosted the Indian Naval Ship Sunayna, marking a significant event in India’s maritime diplomacy with regional partners. After departing from Karwar on April 5, 2025, the vessel reached Port Louis Harbour, completing its first phase of Joint Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance in partnership with the National Coast Guard of Mauritius. This mission involves the collaboration of 44 naval personnel from nine Indian Ocean Region nations, enriching the camaraderie and cooperation among the countries involved. During the two days spent in Mauritius, INS Sunayna's crew received a warm welcome from local officials and dignitaries, including the Commissioner of Police and representatives from the Indian High Commission. The engagement highlighted the mutual interest in maintaining regional maritime security and enhancing operational effectiveness through joint activities. The visit not only served as a platform for maritime surveillance but also included various cultural and operational exchanges aimed at fostering better relationships among the participating nations. Key events during this port call involved a tour of the ship by local dignitaries, interactions between the multinational crew, and community engagement activities such as yoga sessions and sports fixtures. The planned activities aimed to enhance interpersonal connections and operational learnings among the countries, thereby solidifying their commitment to regional security through collaborative growth and mutual learning. After concluding the port call, the INS Sunayna is set to conduct Phase II of Joint EEZ surveillance with the National Coast Guard, further strengthening the collaborative maritime efforts in the Indian Ocean region. Following these operations, the ship is expected to proceed to Port Victoria in Seychelles. The vessel, known for its capabilities in anti-piracy, maritime surveillance, and humanitarian missions, boasts advanced technology and a highly trained crew, embodying India’s broader strategy of strengthening naval presence and fostering cooperative relationships within the region. Overall, this operation reflects India's ongoing efforts to bolster maritime security and reinforce partnerships among friendly nations in the South Western Indian Ocean.