Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), on Monday began a four-day official visit to Mauritius, to strengthen bilateral maritime cooperation and deepen defence ties with the key Indian Ocean partner.

The visit is aimed at enhancing operational-level linkages, expanding cooperation in the maritime domain, and further consolidating the strategic partnership between India and Mauritius, the Ministry of Defence said in a statement.

During the visit, Admiral Swaminathan is scheduled to meet senior leadership of the Mauritian Government and hold discussions on matters of mutual interest including maritime security, defence cooperation, capacity building and military collaboration.

India and Mauritius share a close and enduring maritime partnership. The Indian Navy engages regularly with the National Coast Guard through training exchanges, operational interactions including Joint Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Surveillance, port visits and hydrographic surveys. 

The two nations also participate in a range of multilateral forums and cooperative initiatives. Mauritius has been a regular participant in key Indian Navy initiatives including the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), MILAN, the International Fleet Review, the Goa Maritime Conclave, IOS SAGAR and Exercise AIKEYME. 

The engagements are in line with the shared vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) and reflect the two countries' commitment to maritime security and regional cooperation.

Admiral Krishna Swaminathan's visit to Mauritius, his first, after assuming charge as the Chief of the Naval Staff, underscores the priority India accords to its longstanding friendship with Mauritius founded on mutual trust and respect and a shared commitment to  peace, stability and security in the Indian Ocean Region.