INS Sharda concludes visit to Colombo, boosts bilateral ties, Pg14

Key Highlights:

• Indian Naval Ship (INS Sharda) concluded a port visit to Colombo, Sri Lanka, on June 13.
• The visit aimed to strengthen maritime cooperation and friendship between India and Sri Lanka.
• Engagements included professional, training, and sporting activities between the Indian Navy and the Sri Lankan Navy.
• Sri Lankan Navy personnel received training in small arms handling, basic firefighting, first-aid, and rescue procedures aboard the ship.

Detailed Insights:

• The port call by INS Sharda, a Sukanya-class Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV), enhanced operational preparedness and interoperability between the two navies.
• The visit also involved the transshipment of stores from the Indian Army for Sri Lanka Army personnel deployed on a United Nations mission.
• This engagement aligns with India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and the vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).
• The Commanding Officer of INS Sharda paid a courtesy call on the High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, during the stay.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Maritime Cooperation: Collaborative efforts between nations to ensure security, stability, and sustainable use of the seas.
• Interoperability: The ability of different military forces or systems to operate together effectively and exchange information seamlessly.
• Capacity Building: A long-term process of developing and strengthening the abilities of individuals, organizations, or societies to perform functions and achieve objectives sustainably.