ICG signs MoU with Philippines Coast Guard on enhanced maritime cooperation; holds the first bilateral meet
In a significant step towards bolstering the bilateral cooperation between India and Philippines, DG Rakesh Pal, PTM, TM, Director General Indian Coast Guard is hosting a five member delegation led by CG Admiral Artemio M Abu, Commandant, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in India from 20 to 24 Aug 2023 for signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Enhanced Maritime Cooperation followed by the 1st bilateral meeting between both the Coast Guards.
The MoU has been signed by the Director General Indian Coast Guard and Commandant, Philippine Coast Guard at the Coast Guard Headquarters, New Delhi on 22 Aug 23.
It is significant to note that, the MoU has been prepared so as to enhance the professional linkage between the two Coast Guards in the domain of Maritime Law Enforcement (MLE), Maritime Search & Rescue (M-SAR) and Marine Pollution Response (MPR). Such conventions and exchange of pleasantries is in furtherance of the efforts by both the governments to enhance collaborative and cooperative engagements in the field of maritime safety and security.
The 1st ever bilateral meeting between both the maritime agencies signify dedication in strengthening the professional bonds in accordance with the provisions of MoU by sharing best practices, conducting joint exercises and enhancing training collaborations.
The implementation of this MoU will go a long way in enhancing bilateral maritime cooperation between the two nations for ensuring safe, secure and clean seas in the region. The 1st bilateral meeting was significant in providing added impetus to the professional relationship between the Coast Guards of India and Philippines.
Prior to signing of MoU, the Philippine Coast Guard high level delegation visited Goa on 21 Aug 23, to witness the operational capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard Ships and Aircraft under “Atmanirbhar Bharat”. During the visit, the delegation was also provided with a Customer Demonstration Flight on the Indian Coast Guard Advance Light Helicopter MK-III. The delegates also visited Indian Coast Guard Ship Sujeet which is made by Goa Shipyard Limited.
