ICG’s ship ‘SAJAG’ visits Port Mina Rashid, UAE underProfessional Exchange Programs on Dec 10-13

By Team Last updated Dec 10, 2023

ICG's ship visits Port Mina Rashid, UAE under Professional Exchange Programs on Dec 10-13

New Delhi, 10 Dec 23: Indian Coast Guard Offshore Patrol Vessel ‘SAJAG’ made a significant port call at Mina Rashid, Dubai, UAE on 10 Dec 2023 as a part of ongoing strategic overseas deployment to West Asia, marking a pivotal milestone in the ongoing diplomatic maritime engagement.

During its three-day visit, the crew of ‘ICGS SAJAG’ will participate in a series of professional interactions in field of Marine Pollution Response, Maritime Search and Rescue and Maritime Law Enforcement including a Table Top Exercise towards Force Protection of Naval Establishment, cross-deck visits, joint yoga sessions and PASSEX with the UAE Coast Guard and UAE Critical Infrastructure and Port Authorities (CICPA). These collaborative efforts aim to further strengthen the existing ties between the Indian Coast Guard and their counterparts in the UAE.

This overseas deployment aligns with the Indian Coast Guard’s commitment to fostering bilateral relationships and enhancing international cooperation with Foreign Friendly Countries. Notably, prior to this visit, ‘ICGS SAJAG’ had made port calls to Port Sultan Qaboos, Oman, and King Abdul Aziz Port, AD Dammam, Saudi Arabia, demonstrating a seamless continuation of diplomatic maritime engagements in the West Asian region.

The visit to Mina Rashid holds great significance as it contributes to the reinforcement of bilateral relationships with key maritime agencies. These longstanding relationships are integral to ensuring the safety, security, and environmental sustainability of the seas in the region, while also addressing contemporary maritime challenges.

The deployment of ‘ICGS SAJAG’ to West Asia exemplifies India’s commitment to fostering warm and cordial relations with Gulf States. The overarching goal is to promote friendly relations through maritime cooperation, aligning with India’s maritime vision encapsulated in “SAGAR – Security and Growth for All in the Region” and the “Act West Policy.”

‘ICGS SAJAG’, stationed on the West Coast of India in Porbandar, Gujarat, operates under the operational command of Commander Coast Guard Region (North West). The vessel is equipped with modern weapon systems, advanced sensors, state-of-the-art navigation and communication systems, including an integral helicopter to support both surface and air operations. Over the years, Sajag has successfully undertaken various Coast Guard operations, including Coastal Security, IMBL/EEZ surveillance, counter-transnational crimes, and Maritime Search and Rescue and Pollution Response operations.

The Indian Coast Guard looks forward to a fruitful and productive visit at Mina Rashid, reinforcing the shared commitment to maritime safety and security in the region.