In a recent development, Indian and Algerian navies have taken part in their first ever naval exercise off the Algerian coast. This venture aims to strengthen maritime cooperation between the two nations. Algeria holds strategic importance due to its location in the Maghreb region of North Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, and being the largest country in Africa.
The Maiden Naval Exercise
The pioneering maritime exercise featured the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Tabar and the Algerian Navy ship ‘Ezzadjer.’ INS Tabar is India’s Talwar-class Stealth Frigate, constructed in Russia. The initiation of military drills with Algeria lines up with India’s recent objective of elevating defence and security relations with various African nations.
India and Africa – A Renewed Focus on Maritime Security
The growing interest of India in Africa’s maritime security landscape builds upon the Integrated Maritime Strategy 2050 crafted by the African Union. This strategy includes broad-ranging, cooperative, and systematic long-term action plans to sustain and enhance maritime viability for a prosperous Africa.
Sailing Towards Greater Maritime Domain Awareness
India has put significant effort into promoting Maritime Domain Awareness in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). To oversee activities within the IOR, India has established an efficient information sharing mechanism, encouraging African countries to actively participate in various multilateral frameworks within the region.
The Indian Ocean Rim Association and its Role
The Indian Ocean Rim Association, led by India, is endeavoring to cultivate and boost understanding and mutually beneficial cooperation. Its approach is consensus-based, evolutionary, and non-intrusive, aiming to unite and harmonize maritime nations within the oceanic domain.
Maritime Security Infrastructure in Africa
India has been progressively intensifying its engagement with navies in the African continent. This is achieved through frequent naval deployments and port visits, strengthening their naval ties. In addition, a regional maritime security infrastructure has been laid down, strategically located for heightened security and effective operational interaction. These developments manifest India’s commitment to securing and nurturing its maritime relationships on the African continent.
In summary, this maiden naval exercise between India and Algeria signifies a forward step in their maritime cooperation. It aligns with India’s strategic objective of augmenting defence and security relations with various African nations. This partnership stands to reap benefits not just for India and Algeria, but for the broader maritime security landscape as well.
Source: PIB