The second bilateral meeting between the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) focused on enhancing collaboration in key areas such as maritime search and rescue (SAR), maritime law enforcement, marine pollution response, and capacity building.
During the meeting, held as part of the ongoing cooperation framework established under the MoU signed between the two Coast Guards, both sides explored avenues to boost joint SAR operations, ensuring swift responses to maritime emergencies through shared resources, knowledge, and expertise.
The discussions between the two sides, led by ICG Deputy Director General (Operations & Coastal Security) Inspector General Anupam Rai and PCG Deputy Commandant for Administration Rear Admiral Edgar L. Ybanez, emphasised the need to address transnational maritime crimes such as smuggling, trafficking, and illegal fishing.
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The meeting also highlighted the importance of joint efforts in marine pollution response, focusing on training and resource-sharing to tackle environmental hazards effectively. Both sides underscored the significance of capacity building through knowledge exchange, joint exercises, and training programs to enhance operational capabilities and interoperability.
The MoU, signed in August 2023, underscores the shared vision of the ICG and PCG in ensuring a secure and pollution-free maritime environment in the Indo-Pacific region. “This bilateral meeting further solidifies the professional relationship between the two coast guards, contributing to regional stability and enhancing cooperation in addressing maritime challenges,” the defence ministry said in a release.
