Ashraf AboArafe
Indian Navy’s frontline stealth frigate, INS Tabar, arrived at the historic port city of Alexandria for a goodwill visit from 27 to 30 Jun 2024. This is the 2nd visit of INS TABAR to Egypt in last few years, with the last port call taking place in June 2021.
India and Egypt have enjoyed a rich legacy of close cultural relations and economic ties for many centuries. These bonds have continued to grow stronger in modern times, and in recent years, bilateral cooperation has expanded rapidly. The relationship has been elevated to ‘Strategic Partnership’, during the historic visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Egypt in June 2023.
The visit of INS Tabar reaffirms India’s commitment to deepening the defence ties with Egypt, as well as enhancing maritime security.
During the three day stay at Alexandria, the ship’s crew undertook a host of professional interactions with the Egyptian Navy, besides social engagements. The two Navies will thereafter consolidate the harbour exercises through a Passage Exercise or PASSEX at sea. These interactions aim to strengthen the commonalities in procedures followed by the two Navies as also to widen the scope of interoperability.
INS Tabar also hosted a reception on 27 June, which was attended by the Chief of Staff of Alexandria Naval Base Cmde Mohammed Megally, Ambassador Ajit Gupte and Officers of the Embassy, along with other Indian and Egyptian dignitaries from civilian and military sectors.
