The event was jointly launched by Tanzania’s Minister of Defence and National Service, Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax and India’s Minister of State (MoS) for Defence, Sanjay Seth. The six-day AIKEYME exercise till 18th April includes participation from Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles and South Africa. This first-of-its-kind initiative was co-hosted by India and Tanzania. The naval exercise aims to develop collaborative solutions to common regional maritime challenges. This maiden initiative by the Indian Navy seeks to enhance interoperability and synergise combined operations among the maritime forces of partner nations. It highlights the strong and friendly relations between India and the African nations.

Source: bharatshaktiMoS

Sanjay Seth also participated virtually in launching a new Weapons Training Simulator facility in Arusha. He also inaugurated a Defence Expo showcasing the strength of India’s defence industry. The Expo features 22 Indian companies displaying key defence platforms and systems. Mr. Seth underscored the importance of shared purpose in overcoming maritime challenges, advocating for unity and mutual growth under the principle of MAHASAGAR — Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across the Region. He echoed the African proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together,” emphasising the need for enduring partnerships to secure a peaceful and prosperous maritime future.

Source: tripurastarnews

During his visit, MoS Seth also interacted with personnel from participating navies and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) SAGAR ship. He toured INS Chennai and presented goodwill gifts to Tanzania, including 15 sets of parachutes, books for the National Defence College and a Tri-Services War Gaming Simulator, reflecting the deepening defence ties between the two nations.