Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Pollution Control Vessel Samudra Paheredar, accompanied by an integral helicopter, recently made a port call at Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam as part of its ongoing overseas deployment to Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries . During this three-day visit, the crew engaged in professional interactions focused on marine pollution response, maritime search & rescue, and maritime law enforcement. The activities also included cross-deck training, subject matter expert exchanges, sports events, and a passage exercise with the Vietnam Coast Guard (VCG).
This visit not only strengthened ties between the ICG and VCG but also showcased India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities. Additionally, 25 National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets aboard the vessel participated in a Walkathon and Beach Clean-up activities. Since 2015, the ICG and VCG have had an existing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that institutionalized cooperative engagements between the two maritime agencies. This overseas deployment is a testament to the ICG’s commitment to bolster bilateral relationships and enhance international cooperation with friendly countries.
The visit of the ICG specialized vessel to these countries aligns with the India ASEAN Initiative for marine pollution, which was announced during the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus in Cambodia in 2022. The deployment of Samudra Paheredar to the ASEAN region reflects India’s shared concern and resolve towards marine pollution, promoting safety, and security through maritime cooperation. Prior to Ho Chi Minh, the vessel had visited Manila, Philippines, demonstrating a seamless continuation of diplomatic maritime engagements in the ASEAN region .