Multinational Indian Ocean ship IOS Sagar docks in Colombo to boost India-Sri Lanka maritime cooperation
New Delhi, May 15. The Indian Ocean Ship IOS Sagar, manned by naval personnel from 16 friendly foreign countries, sailed into Colombo Harbour on May 15 as part of its ongoing deployment across the Indian Ocean Region, signalling deepening maritime cooperation between India and Sri Lanka.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence, escorted into port by a vessel of the Sri Lanka Navy, the ship’s arrival highlighted the growing interoperability and operational coordination between the Indian Navy and its Sri Lankan counterpart. The three-day port call is aimed at reinforcing regional maritime collaboration and strengthening the collective security architecture in the Indian Ocean.
During the visit, the Commanding Officer of IOS Sagar is slated to meet senior Sri Lanka Navy officials, including the Commander of the Western Naval Area and the Flag Officer Commanding the Naval Fleet. He will also call on the High Commissioner of India in Colombo. The Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Navy is expected to visit the vessel and interact with the multinational crew on board.
A series of professional and cultural engagements have been planned as part of the visit. Members of the multinational crew will participate in media interactions to outline the objectives of the IOS Sagar 2026 deployment. Friendly sporting events, such as volleyball and basketball matches between Indian Navy and Sri Lanka Navy personnel, are also scheduled to promote camaraderie and mutual understanding.
The ship will be open to visitors during its stay, with Sri Lanka Navy personnel, school students, and members of the Indian diaspora in Colombo expected to tour the vessel.
Beyond official interactions, the crew will undertake cultural and professional visits to key locations including Colombo Port, Galle, Kandy, and Pinnawala, aimed at fostering deeper people-to-people connections.
IOS Sagar is set to depart Colombo on May 18, following a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Sri Lanka Navy at sea.
The visit underscores India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and its sustained commitment to promoting peace, stability, and cooperative maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.
