On September 14, Admiral Krishna Swaminathan of the Indian Navy met with his New Zealand counterpart during a visit to the island nation aimed at strengthening maritime cooperation and enhancing professional and operational linkages between the two navies.
The meeting between Admiral Swaminathan and Rear Admiral Garin Golding, Chief of the Royal New Zealand Navy, focused on deepening practical cooperation, including increased operational engagement and improved maritime information exchange. The chiefs also discussed a planned maiden bilateral naval exercise in 2027.
The visit was part of a broader trip that began on September 9 in Australia, where the Indian Navy also sought to boost bilateral naval cooperation. In New Zealand, the ceremony began with a traditional Maori Powhiri at Te Taua Moana Marae on the HMNZS Philomel, followed by a guard of honour at the naval base in Auckland. The event highlighted the shared naval history, noting the 6‑inch turret of HMNZS Achilles, later serving as INS Delhi, as a tangible link between the two navies.
The engagement underscores the enduring maritime partnership between India and New Zealand and reflects both navies’ commitment to advancing operational linkages. It aligns with India’s MAHASAGAR vision of mutual and holistic advancement for security and growth across regions, reinforcing the country’s dedication to strengthening regional maritime partnerships.
