Chennai, Aug 26. India and Vietnam have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in maritime safety, security and environmental protection during the 7th High-Level Meeting (HLM) between their coast guards, held in Chennai.
The meeting on August 25 was conducted under the framework of the 2015 Memorandum of Understanding on Coast Guard Cooperation and was co-chaired by Indian Coast Guard Director General Paramesh Sivamani and Major General Luong Dinh Hung, Vice Commandant of the Vietnam Coast Guard.
Discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in maritime search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, marine pollution response and capacity building. The two sides also reviewed ongoing engagements, including professional exchanges and ship visits, and reiterated their commitment to improving operational coordination and interoperability.
The Indian and Vietnamese coast guards stressed the importance of regular institutional interactions, joint training, professional exchanges and the sharing of best practices. They noted that such initiatives would help build mutual trust and strengthen coordination and operational cooperation between the two forces.
The meeting underscored the shared resolve of India and Vietnam to work together in a spirit of friendship and cooperation to promote maritime safety, security and environmental sustainability in the region.
As part of the continuing bilateral engagement, the two coast guards will conduct the India-Vietnam Coast Guard Joint Exercise SAHYOG-HOPTAC at sea on August 27. The exercise is expected to enhance operational coordination and interoperability while providing an opportunity for both sides to exchange operational practices and strengthen cooperation.
