Strengthening ties: INS Suvarna’s visit to Dar es Salaam

IN a testament to the enduring friendship and defence cooperation between Tanzania and India, Dar es Salaam recently welcomed the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Suvarna.

This visit marks another milestone in the deep-rooted partnership between the two nations.

The arrival of the INS Suvarna, celebrated with ceremony and warm words, symbolises the growing collaboration in defence and maritime security, underscoring the historical and strategic ties that connect the two countries.

Major General Ibrahim Michael Mhona, Chief of Operations and Training at the Tanzania Peoples’ Defence Forces (TPDF), spoke on behalf of General Jacob John Mkunda, Chief of the Tanzania Defence Forces. He expressed gratitude for the strengthening relationship between the Tanzanian and Indian armed forces, which dates back to 1964.

“Your visit not only strengthens the bonds between our countries but also showcases the mutual respect and cooperation that exists between our naval forces to enhance bilateral relations through naval diplomacy,” said Maj Gen Mhona.

This sentiment reflects the broader significance of the visit, aimed at fostering peace, trust and security in the maritime domain. By working together, the two nations are laying the groundwork for a more secure maritime environment, benefiting both parties and the wider region.

He noted that India and Tanzania have been cooperating in military training, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and skills in various defence-related areas. Maj Gen Mhona emphasised that the visit of the Naval Ship Suvarna is further evidence of their strong friendship.

“This visit not only strengthens the bonds between Tanzania and India but also showcases the mutual respect and cooperation that exist between our naval forces,” he reiterated.

The visit serves as a foundation for building trust, fostering collaboration and promoting peace and prosperity in the maritime domain, he added.

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India’s High Commissioner to Tanzania, Bishwadip Dey, echoed these sentiments, celebrating the presence of the Indian Navy in the Indian Ocean and the longstanding friendship between the two nations. “The relationship between India and Tanzania stretches back centuries, rooted in the age-old maritime and cultural exchanges along the Indian Ocean,” he noted, highlighting the historical context of their cooperation.

Beyond celebrating shared history, the visit emphasised tangible advancements in defence collaboration. One notable highlight was the handover of an Integrated Weapon Training Simulator (IWTS) to the TPDF. This gift will significantly enhance Tanzania’s defence training capabilities.

The simulator, a key tool for infantry training, will ensure Tanzanian personnel can engage in realistic exercises essential for maintaining the nation’s security and defence readiness.

Over the years, the defence relationship between India and Tanzania has strengthened, with both countries recognising the strategic importance of maritime security. The Indian Ocean, a vital conduit for trade and cultural exchange, serves as a gateway for cooperation to ensure freedom of navigation and peaceful trade in the region.

This collaboration was further reinforced during Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s visit to India in 2023, which elevated the bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership.

INS Suvarna’s visit also symbolises India’s broader commitment to supporting Tanzania’s development across various sectors, including infrastructure, energy and capacity building. Mr Dey highlighted the importance of recent high-level engagements between the two governments, reaffirming their mutual resolve to deepen cooperation.

As the event concluded, the camaraderie between the two nations was palpable. The presence of key figures, such as Commodore Agyapal Singh, the first Indian Defence Advisor residing in Dar es Salaam, emphasised the long-term vision shared by both countries to work together for peace and security.

The visit of INS Suvarna to Dar es Salaam serves as a powerful reminder of the unshakable bonds between India and Tanzania. This partnership is built on shared history, values and a vision for a prosperous and secure future. As both nations continue to collaborate, the foundations of peace, trust and mutual development are set to grow stronger, ensuring a brighter future for the region and beyond.