Chennai: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Vietnam Coast Guard (VCG) on Tuesday held their 7th High-Level Meeting (HLM) in Chennai, reaffirming their commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation in maritime security and safety.
The meeting, held under the framework of the 2015 Memorandum of Understanding on Coast Guard Cooperation, was co-chaired by ICG Director General Paramesh Sivamani and Vietnam Coast Guard Vice Commandant Major General Luong Dinh Hung.
The discussions focused on key areas including Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR), maritime law enforcement, marine pollution response and capacity building.
Both sides reviewed ongoing bilateral engagements, including professional exchanges and ship visits, and stressed the need to further improve operational coordination and interoperability.
The two Coast Guards agreed to enhance regular institutional interactions, training programmes, professional exchanges and sharing of best practices. Ship visits will also continue to promote greater mutual understanding, trust and coordination between the two forces.
The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment of India and Vietnam to work together to promote maritime safety, security and environmental sustainability in the region.
As part of the continuing cooperation, the India-Vietnam Coast Guard Joint Exercise ‘SAHYOG-HOPTAC’ is scheduled to be conducted at sea on August 27, 2026.
The exercise is expected to provide an opportunity for both Coast Guards to strengthen operational coordination and interoperability while exchanging best practices in maritime operations.
