A Japanese Coast Guard training ship named Itsukushima arrived in Chennai for a six-day visit. The ship carries 53 young officers learning to work at sea. This visit helps make the friendship between Japan and India stronger.
Indian officials welcomed the ship warmly when it arrived. Students from the National Cadet Corps and army musicians played music to show friendship. The ship will stay until July 12. During this time, Japanese and Indian coast guard teams will train together and share their cultures.
Four Indian coast guard officers will join the Japanese ship and travel to Singapore. This shows how the two countries work well together. The Indian Coast Guard said this visit proves both countries want to keep the sea safe for everyone.
The Itsukushima ship is on a three-month training trip around the world. In May, it visited San Francisco for the first time. This new ship replaced an old one called Kojima that served for 30 years.
Japan and India Work Together More
Japan and India are becoming closer friends. Last month, India’s Prime Minister Modi and Japan’s leader Ishiba met in Canada. They promised to work together more, especially on safety and security.
Last November, defense ministers from both countries met too. They talked about making new military technology together. One important project is called UNICORN – special equipment for Indian Navy ships. An Indian company will make it with Japan’s help.
This is the first time Japan and India will build defense equipment together. The ministers agreed to do more joint projects like this. They also want their militaries to practice together more often.
Keeping the Sea Peaceful
Both countries believe working together keeps the Asia-Pacific region safe and free. They support fair rules for all nations. They agree no country should take other lands by force.
The Itsukushima visit shows the growing friendship between Japan and India. As both countries face similar challenges at sea, working together helps protect their people. After Chennai, the ship will continue its training trip, but this visit will be remembered as an important moment in Japan-India friendship.
The young officers on board will learn about India’s culture while sharing Japan’s traditions. These exchanges help build trust between future leaders of both coast guards. With more visits like this, Japan and India can keep building a strong partnership for peace.