Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan has begun a four-day official visit to Mauritius, marking his first trip to the island nation since assuming charge as Navy chief. The visit, which commenced on August 10 and will conclude on August 13, aims to deepen bilateral maritime cooperation and strengthen defence ties between India and Mauritius, a key partner in the Indian Ocean Region.
During his visit, Admiral Swaminathan is scheduled to interact with senior Mauritian Government leadership and engage in discussions on various aspects of maritime security, defence cooperation, capacity building, and military collaboration. The visit is expected to strengthen operational-level linkages between the two countries and consolidate their strategic maritime partnership.
India and Mauritius have a longstanding maritime partnership, with the Indian Navy regularly engaging with the Mauritius National Coast Guard through training exchanges, operational interactions, including joint Exclusive Economic Zone surveillance, port visits, and hydrographic surveys. Mauritius has also been a regular participant in major Indian Navy-led multilateral and regional initiatives, including the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), MILAN, the International Fleet Review, the Goa Maritime Conclave, IOS SAGAR, and Exercise AIKEYME.
The engagements reflect the shared vision of MAHASAGAR – Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions – and India’s emphasis on strengthening maritime security and cooperation across the Indian Ocean. Admiral Swaminathan’s visit underscores the priority accorded by India to its close and enduring friendship with Mauritius, anchored in mutual respect, trust, and a shared commitment to maritime security, regional cooperation, and stability in the Indian Ocean Region.
The visit is part of India’s efforts to expand its engagement with maritime partners in the region through capacity building, information sharing, training, and coordinated surveillance. By strengthening ties with Mauritius, India aims to promote regional cooperation and stability in the Indian Ocean Region.
