Indian Navy chief meets New Zealand counterpart to strengthen maritime cooperation

Surendra.Singh@timesofindia.comNew Delhi: Navy chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan on Monday visited New Zealand to strengthen maritime cooperation and enhance professional and operational linkages between the Indian Navy and the Royal New Zealand Navy.During the visit, Admiral Krishna Swaminathan held substantive discussions with Rear Admiral Garin Golding, Chief of Royal New Zealand Navy. Building upon the India-New Zealand maritime security cooperation arrangement, the two chiefs exchanged views on enhancing the partnership between the two navies, advancing operational engagement, including a maiden bilateral naval exercise in 2027, and exploring ways to ensure better maritime information exchange.The visit underscores the enduring maritime partnership between India and New Zealand and reflects the shared commitment of the Indian Navy and Royal New Zealand Navy towards strengthening maritime cooperation and advancing operational linkages.The engagement is in keeping with India's vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) and India's commitment to strengthening maritime partnerships in the region.Admiral Swaminathan’s visit commenced with a traditional Maori Powhiri accorded to the Navy chief at Te Taua Moana Marae, at HMNZS Philomel, Devonport Naval Base, Auckland.The Powhiri, a traditional Mori welcome, was a powerful expression of manaakitanga, respect and welcome, deeply woven into the identity of the Royal New Zealand Navy. The traditional welcome was followed by a ceremonial guard of honour accorded by the Royal New Zealand Navy at HMNZS Philomel, the 'Home of the Navy'.