Magazine : 
Japan's Yashima Ship Docks in Chennai for Joint ICG Exercise
The arrival of the Japan Coast Guard ship Yashima in Chennai marks the commencement of a joint exercise with the Indian Coast Guard. The JCG Ship received a traditional welcome, complete with a ceremonial band, NCC cadets, and students from local schools. The Indian Coast Guard shared a post on X, stating, "Japan Coast Guard Ship Yashima arrived Chennai for a joint exercise with India Coast Guard. JCG Ship was given a traditional welcome by a delegation from Regional HQ (East) with a ceremonial band, NCC cadets & students from local schools".
Earlier in the day, Captain Yuichi Motoyama, the Commanding Officer of the JCG Ship Yashima, paid a visit to IG Donny Michael, Tamil Nadu, Commander Coast Guard Region (East) in Chennai. During their meeting, they explored ways to enhance bilateral cooperation through the exchange of expertise and the discussion of best practices.
"Captain Yuichi Motoyama, Commanding Officer, Japan Coast Guard Ship Yashima called on IG Donny Michael, TM, Commander Coast Guard Region (East) at Chennai today. Avenues to strengthen bilateral cooperation by sharing expertise & best practices were discussed", the Indian Coast Guard shared on X.
India and Japan have established a 'Special Strategic and Global Partnership,' underpinned by a deep-rooted history of spiritual affinity and robust cultural and civilizational bonds. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the maritime exercise Malabar-22, in its 26th Edition, concluded in the seas off Japan on November 15, 2022. Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral R Hari Kumar visited Japan to participate in the exercise's inauguration.
From March 3 to 5, 2023, General Koji Yamazaki, Chief of Staff (COS) Joint Staff, visited India to take part in the Raisina Dialogue 2023. Additionally, the inaugural bilateral fighter exercise, Veer Guardian, took place in Japan in January 2023.
