Visakhapatnam, Sep 20 (NVI): The 13th edition of the India-Sri Lanka bilateral maritime exercise SLINEX-26 is being conducted here from September 17 to 21, with the two navies focusing on enhancing operational cooperation and interoperability.
The exercise began with the Harbour Phase under the aegis of the Eastern Naval Command and will be followed by the Sea Phase.
The Indian Navy is participating with INS Kavaratti, an indigenous anti-submarine warfare corvette, and INS Jyoti, a fleet tanker, while the Sri Lanka Navy is represented by SLNS Sindurala.
The Harbour Phase included an opening ceremony and reception onboard INS Kavaratti for the visiting Sri Lankan crew. It also featured professional interactions, cross-deck visits, sharing of best practices, yoga, sports and cultural activities.
The Sea Phase will focus on coordinated activities at sea aimed at enhancing operational synergy and interoperability between the two navies.
Conceptualised in 2005, SLINEX has evolved into an important forum for strengthening maritime cooperation, mutual understanding and interoperability between India and Sri Lanka.
The exercise is also aligned with India’s MAHASAGAR vision and underscores its commitment to a secure, stable and inclusive maritime environment while further strengthening the longstanding maritime partnership between the two countries.—(NVI)
