Vizag: The spirit of maritime camaraderie and international partnership was on full display as the Mauritius National Coast Guard Ship (NCG) Valiant joined Indian Navy soldiers in the Vizag Navy Marathon. Organized in Visakhapatnam, the event underscored the enduring bond between the two nations’ naval forces and their shared commitment to fostering teamwork, endurance, and mutual respect.
Participation Highlights
The Indian High Commission in Mauritius proudly announced the participation of the NCG Valiant crew alongside Indian Navy personnel. The marathon attracted military personnel, civilian runners, and maritime enthusiasts from across the region, serving as a platform to showcase physical fitness, discipline, and the shared ethos of endurance that defines naval forces globally.
The marathon was a major feature of the broader initiative aimed at promoting interaction between India and its strategic maritime partners, including Mauritius. The presence of Valiant at the Naval Dockyard further reinforced the growing synergy between the two forces.
Mauritius National Coast Guard Ship Valiant
The Valiant, one of Mauritius’ premier National Coast Guard vessels, is equipped for a range of operations, including surveillance, search and rescue, and disaster response. Its participation in this event signifies Mauritius’ increasing involvement in regional maritime collaborations. The ship’s current presence at the Naval Dockyard also aligns with broader joint training efforts and operational exchanges between the Indian Navy and the Mauritius Police Force (MPF).
Vizag Navy Marathon
Held annually, the Vizag Navy Marathon is not only a celebration of physical fitness but also a means to bring together naval forces, civilians, and allied nations in an atmosphere of camaraderie and cultural exchange. This year, the marathon featured several categories, including a 5K Fun Run, 10K Competitive Run, and a Half Marathon, each testing the participants’ stamina, perseverance, and spirit.
Strengthening India-Mauritius Ties
The marathon participation is just one aspect of the robust India-Mauritius naval relationship. Earlier this month, the Indian Navy concluded its three-week Annual Commando and Diving Training program for the MPF, with 49 professionals successfully completing rigorous training. The program included special operations and military diving, designed to enhance the MPF’s maritime operational capabilities.
At the closing ceremony, Commodore Rana V. Singh, representing the Indian Navy, handed over vital equipment, including four inflatable rubber crafts and four outboard motors (OBMs), as part of India’s ongoing support to Mauritius’ maritime security framework.
Commentary from Dignitaries
“The participation of Valiant in the Vizag Navy Marathon reflects the strong maritime ties between India and Mauritius. This partnership goes beyond operational cooperation; it embodies our shared values of discipline, fitness, and resilience,” said Mr. Rampersad Sooroojebally, Mauritius Commissioner of Police.
Commodore Singh echoed this sentiment, stating, “Events like the Vizag Navy Marathon help strengthen the personal and professional bonds between our forces. They are a reminder of our joint commitment to regional security and cooperation.”
Future Collaborations
The participation of Mauritius’ Coast Guard personnel in India’s naval events is expected to deepen bilateral ties further. Upcoming training sessions, joint patrols, and maritime security initiatives are already on the agenda, with a focus on combating piracy, conducting search-and-rescue operations, and improving maritime law enforcement capabilities.
The Vizag Navy Marathon serves as a testament to the strong relationship between India and Mauritius, going beyond strategic cooperation to foster mutual respect and understanding. The involvement of the Mauritius National Coast Guard Ship Valiant adds a significant chapter to this partnership, reaffirming the commitment of both nations to building a secure and collaborative maritime future.
