The visit featured a series of bilateral engagements between the Indian Navy (IN) and the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN), reinforcing defence cooperation and maritime partnership between the two nations, according to an official statement issued by the Indian government.
During the port call, the Senior Officer of 1TS, accompanied by the commanding officers of the ships, called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy's Western Naval Area.
The interaction reaffirmed the close bilateral ties between the two navies and their shared commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation.
As part of professional engagements, sea trainees of 1TS visited the Naval and Maritime Academy (NMA) in Trincomalee and interacted with their Sri Lankan counterparts.
In a reciprocal engagement, Sri Lankan Navy cadets from the academy visited the Indian ships and gained insights into the squadron's training facilities and activities.
These interactions provided an opportunity for the trainees of both navies to exchange experiences and foster professional camaraderie.
As part of its community outreach initiatives, Indian Navy personnel also participated in a beach clean-up drive to promote environmental sustainability.
The ships were opened to visitors, including members of the local community and the Indian diaspora, offering them an opportunity to interact with the crew and learn about the Indian Navy's training and operational activities.
Upon departure from Colombo, the 1TS ships conducted a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with Sri Lanka Navy ship SLNS Nandimithra.
The exercise involved coordinated maritime manoeuvres and helped enhance operational coordination and interoperability between the two maritime forces.
The visit underscored the enduring maritime partnership between India and Sri Lanka and reaffirmed their shared commitment to regional maritime cooperation and capacity building, in line with India's MAHASAGAR vision (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).