Japan Coast Guard Ship ‘Itsukushima’ Arrives in Chennai

Chennai: The Japan Coast Guard (JCG) Ship Itsukushima arrived at Chennai Port today, marking the beginning of a week-long visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between the JCG and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).

The ship, under the command of Captain Naoki Mizoguchi, was accorded a warm ceremonial welcome in traditional Indian style. The visit is led by Vice Admiral Hiroaki Kanosue, Vice Commandant (Operations), Japan Coast Guard.

During its stay, the crew will engage in various professional and cultural activities, including official courtesy calls, reciprocal ship visits, and joint training sessions. The JCG delegation will call on Director General Paramesh Sivamani, Indian Coast Guard, and Additional Director General Donny Michael, Commander, Coast Guard Eastern Seaboard.

A highlight of the visit will be a joint sea exercise, Exercise Jaa Mata, scheduled to take place after the Chennai visit. The exercise aims to enhance coordination and operational synergy between the two maritime forces. Four ICG officers will also embark on the ship as Sea Riders, further strengthening camaraderie and professional exchange.

The visit reflects the strong partnership between the ICG and JCG, rooted in the Memorandum of Cooperation signed in 2006. This collaboration is aligned with India’s SAGAR vision and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, promoting a Free, Open, and Inclusive Indo-Pacific.

The port call is expected to further deepen mutual trust and friendship between the two maritime agencies, advancing maritime diplomacy and operational synergy.