India, Mozambique to strengthen defence ties

S Vishnu Sharmaa, INN/Chennai, @Svs037

The bilateral relations between India and Mozambique are going to get more stronger. According to sources, both the nations have signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance co-operation between both the nations in the defence segment.

While both the nations signed two MoUs, they were done after a meeting of Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his counterpart from Mozambique Atanasio Salvador M’tumuke. 

The agreements were about sharing white shipping and co-operation in the field of Hydrography. This is said to be the first visit of Rajnath Singh abroad as Defence Minister of India. 

He is said to be the first ever Defence Minister who is said to have visited Mozambique. During the visit Union Minister also met Mr. Carlos Agostinho do Rosario, the Prime Minister of Mozambique.

Mozambique sought co-operation from India to deal with the growing menace of terrorism and radicalisation. Rajnath Singh assured co-operation and reiterated commitment to work together in this regard. An elaborate ceremony was held today at Mozambican Naval Headquarters to hand over two India-made Fast Interceptor Boats (FIBs) to Mozambique. 

The handing over certificate was signed by the Director General, Coast Guards of India and Chief of Mozambican Navy.  A four-member Indian Coast Guard team is also assisting with training and support for maintenance and operation of the two boats. 

Mozambican Defence Minister expressed gratitude for India’s support for Mozambican Defence Forces, in particular, for the boats being used for coastal surveillance.