Joint Patrols and Training on Marine Pollution

Sunday, March 23, 2025, will mark a significant moment in cooperation between the Comoros and India, with the arrival of an Indian Navy expedition in Moroni.

Comprising 22 Indian Coast Guard personnel, this operation aims to conduct joint maritime security exercises with their Comorian counterparts. Led by Senior Officer Shatrujeet Singh, Commanding Officer of the ICGS Saksham, the mission will focus on training and combating marine pollution, with practical exercises.

Cooperation between India and the Comoros, which began in 1976, has been strengthening for several years, particularly in the area of maritime security. This mission is part of the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) project, which aims to strengthen maritime security in the Indian Ocean. Among the planned actions, joint patrols between the coast guards of the two countries will be established to monitor the Comoros’ exclusive economic zone.

This mission also follows the 2019 visit of Indian Vice President Venkaiah Naidu to Moroni, demonstrating a desire to strengthen bilateral relations. Although the two countries have signed several memoranda of understanding, no formal cooperation or defense agreements have yet been concluded.

Comorian authorities, including the Coast Guard Unit, the Directorate General of Civil Security (DGSC), and the National Agency for Maritime Affairs (ANAM), will participate in the planned meetings. This will foster increased collaboration in the management of maritime issues and the protection of the marine environment.