New Delhi [India], March 4 (HBTV): As part of the ongoing training deployment of the First Training Squadron (1TS) to Southeast Asia, INS Shardul, INS Sujata, and ICGS Veera arrived at Phuket Deep Sea Port, Thailand, on Saturday, the Ministry of Defence stated on Monday.

The ships received a warm welcome from the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) amid the fanfare of the RTN band. Senior Officer, 1TS, Capt. Anshul Kishore, along with the Commanding Officers of the ships, called on Rear Admiral Suwat Donsakul, Commander of the Third Naval Area Command. Discussions focused on regional security, joint training exercises, and goodwill activities, the statement said.

A reception was hosted onboard 1TS for senior RTN leadership, diplomats, and members of the Indian diaspora. During the port call, the Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy will participate in a series of activities aimed at strengthening maritime cooperation and enhancing operational synergy.

The visit includes professional interactions, yoga sessions, cross-training visits, friendly sports fixtures, a naval band performance, and PASSEX, the statement added.

The Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy have maintained a close and friendly relationship, strengthening their cooperation over the years. The visit reinforces mutual understanding and interoperability between the two navies.

Earlier, the First Training Squadron of the Indian Navy arrived at Cam Ranh Bay in Vietnam on February 20, according to the Ministry of Defence.

In a statement, the ministry noted that INS Sujata and ICGS Veera were welcomed by the Vietnam People's Navy and members of the Indian mission in Vietnam. During the port call, various cross-training visits, professional and community interactions, including a visit to the Vietnam Naval Academy, were planned.

(ANI)