Coast Guards of India, Singapore to hold joint drill

SINGAPORE: Indian Coast Guard ship " Sagar" will take part in a joint exercise with Singapore's Police Coast Guard to develop common standard operating procedures.

"Sagar will be participating in bilateral exercise with Police Coast Guard of Singapore to further develop common standard operating procedures," Indian High Commissioner Vijay Thakur Singh said.

The joint drill will take place later this week. The ship provides an opportunity to reiterate India's commitment to bilateral relations with Singapore, he said.

Singh noted the importance of Sagar's visit coinciding with the annual Governing Council meeting of the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery ( ReCAAP).

The ship's presence underlines India's commitment to the ReCAAP, said Singh, assuring of India's continuing support and cooperation with the regional grouping.

The anti-piracy meeting that started here yesterday will continue till March 7.

Vice Admiral Anurag G Thapliyal, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard, is representing India at the ReCAAP.