VISIT OF INDIAN NAVAL SHIPS TO BUSAN, REPUBLIC OF KOREA

            In a demonstration of India’s ‘Act East’ policy and Indian Navy’s increasing footprint and operational reach, Indian Naval Ships Sahyadri, Shakti and Kirch under the command of the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, Rear Admiral SV Bhokare, YSM, NM have arrived at Busan on a four day visit (from June 21 to 25), as part of deployment of the Eastern Fleet to  Asia and Pacific Region.

During the visit, the Indian Naval Ships will have professional interaction with the Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy towards further enhancing cooperation between the two forces. In addition, calls on senior Government and military authorities, sporting and cultural interactions and sharing of best practices, aimed at strengthening ties and mutual understanding between the two Navies, are also planned. The visiting Indian Naval Ships are also likely to conduct exercises with the ROK Navy, aimed at enhancing interoperability in communication as well as Search and Rescue procedures, upon departure from Busan.  INS Sahyadri is commanded by Captain KS Rajkumar, INS Shakti is commanded by Captain Gagan Kaushal and INS Kirch is commanded by Commander Sharad Sinsunwal. The last visit by an Indian Naval Ship to Republic of Korea was in October 2015, when Sahyadri berthed at Incheon.

Traditionally close historical bilateral relations were given an impetus with the state visit of Her Excellency President Park Geun-hye to India in January 2014 and by that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Korea in May 2015. As a result, bilateral relations were upgraded to ‘Special Strategic Partnership’. Bilateral trade and economic cooperation between the two countries has grown exponentially in recent years. Both countries have signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in 2010 which is under review, with special emphasis on shipbuilding, electronics, defence production and manufacturing.

Defence and Security relations between India and Republic of Korea have been energized with the visit of India’s Defence Minister in April 2015. Participation in training courses, multi-lateral seminars/forums, reciprocal port visits, high-level delegations and training exchanges have bolstered naval cooperation between the two countries.  In addition, both countries have forged ties in the field of Military Research and Development, with Memorandum of Understanding signed between Indian Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Defence Acquisition Programme Administration (DAPA) of ROK.

The current visit seeks to enhance maritime cooperation between the Indian Navy and the ROK Navy. It will further bolster the strong bonds of friendship between India and Republic of Korea, a valued and special strategic partner and contribute to security and stability in this vital part of the world.