Indian Coast Guard signs MoU with Philippines Coast Guard on enhanced maritime cooperation; holds the first bilateral meet

In a significant step towards enhancing bilateral cooperation between India and the Philippines, the Indian Coast Guard has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on enhancing maritime cooperation. The MoU was signed by DG Rakesh Pal, Director General, Indian Coast Guard and Admiral CG Artemio M Abu, Commander, PCG at Coast Guard HQ, New Delhi on 22 August 2023. Both sides held their first bilateral meeting on a number of maritime issues.

The Memorandum of Understanding signed today aims to strengthen the professional liaison between the two coastguards in the fields of Maritime Law Enforcement (MLE), Maritime Search and Rescue (M-SAR) and Marine Pollution Response (MPR) . The implementation of this MoU will enhance bilateral maritime cooperation between the two nations to ensure safe, secure and clean seas in the region. The first ever bilateral meeting between the two shipping agencies signifies a commitment to strengthen professional ties by sharing best practices, conducting joint exercises and strengthening training partnerships.

A five-member PCG delegation is on an official tour of India from 20 to 24 August 2023. Previously, the delegation had visited Goa on 21 August where they witnessed the operational capabilities of Indian Coast Guard vessels and aircraft under ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat”. During the visit, the delegation was also treated to a demonstration flight on the Indian Coast Guard’s Advance MK-III light helicopter. Delegates also visited the Indian Coast Guard Vessel Sujeet, built by Goa Shipyard Limited.

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SR/Anand