INS Sudarshini’s Cape Verde visit strengthens India’s global maritime power play

The four-day stopover featured a series of professional interactions, cultural exchanges and social engagements, further strengthening maritime ties between India and Cape Verde.

During the visit, the Commanding Officer of INS Sudarshini called on Capitão-de-Navio Kahbi Yassine Fonseca Pereira Batista at the Coast Guard Command.

“Discussions focused on shared interests in maritime security and avenues for enhanced cooperation,” a government statement said.

A major highlight of the visit was the training engagement, with the Indian Navy conducting damage control and seamanship drills onboard the Cabo Verdean patrol vessel Guardiao.

A delegation from the Cabo Verde Army also boarded INS Sudarshini for a guided tour and an overview of the ship’s sail training capabilities.

Showcasing the warm ties between the two nations, a joint yoga session was organised with participation from personnel of the Cabo Verde Coast Guard and officials from the Indian Embassy.

An onboard reception hosted by the ship brought together senior military officers, government dignitaries and members of the diplomatic community, fostering goodwill and camaraderie.

The port call at Mindelo marks a key milestone under the Indian Navy’s Bridges of Friendship initiative, reaffirming India’s commitment to maritime outreach and enduring partnerships with friendly nations.

INS Sudarshini has now set sail for Antigua for the next phase of its deployment — a crucial trans-Atlantic passage that will be the longest leg of the voyage.