INS Sunayna Visit to Port of Durban, South Africa Reinforces Maritime Partnerships and Cooperation
During the period of August 21 to August 25, 2023, INS Sunayna, a vessel of the Indian Navy, made a significant visit to the port of Durban in South Africa. This visit underscored India’s commitment to fostering strong maritime partnerships in alignment with Prime Minister’s vision of “Security and Growth for All in the Region” (SAGAR). The visit proved to be a testament to India’s dedication to enhancing security and cooperation in the region.
Throughout the visit, personnel from both the Indian Navy and the South African Navy participated in an array of professional interactions, training sessions, and friendly engagements. The collaboration encompassed joint training exercises that covered various critical areas such as navigation, firefighting, damage control, and the crucial process of Visit Board Search & Seize. Furthermore, the message of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” signifying the world as one family, was vividly demonstrated through a joint yoga session held aboard INS Sunayna, uniting Indian and South African Navy personnel in a shared pursuit of well-being.
An essential component of the visit was the opening of the ship to visitors on August 23, 2023. During this occasion, the Consul General of India in Durban, Dr. Thelma John David, had the opportunity to tour the vessel and gain insight into its roles and capabilities, reinforcing the significance of the diplomatic ties between the two nations.
A pinnacle of the visit was the Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX) conducted between INS Sunayna and the South African Navy Ship SAS King Sekhukhune I. This exercise, conducted off the coast of Durban as INS Sunayna departed from the harbour, emphasized the importance of jointness and interoperability between the two maritime forces.
The successful culmination of INS Sunayna’s visit to the port of Durban exemplifies the shared commitment of both the Indian and South African Navies to nurturing and enhancing maritime cooperation and partnership. This strategic interaction further paves the way for strengthened regional security, mutual growth, and the realization of the vision of an interconnected and secure maritime domain.