UK Defence Committee Explores Mumbai Visit to Gain Insights into Geopolitical Landscape in Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean Regions

UK Defence Select Committee Visits Mumbai to Enhance Understanding of Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean Security

A delegation from the Defence Select Committee of the United Kingdom House of Commons recently undertook a visit to Mumbai to gain a deeper insight into the current security situation in the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The primary objective of the visit was to assess the potential contributions that the UK could make in ensuring security and stability in the region, as stated by the Navy.

The delegation, led by Tobias Ellwood, MP, who also serves as the committee's chairman and brings with him a wealth of experience as a former British Army Officer, arrived in Mumbai from July 19 to 21. During their visit, they held discussions and engaged with Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, Chief of Staff at Headquarters Western Naval Command, along with other senior officers of the Command.

"The British delegation's visit to India was aimed at gaining a comprehensive understanding of the current security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and exploring ways in which the UK could actively contribute to bolstering security in the area," the Navy's statement affirmed.

The interactions between the UK delegation and Indian naval authorities covered a wide range of subjects, including shared interests and joint efforts to strengthen security in the region. Both sides explored avenues to enhance defence cooperation between their maritime forces, paving the way for closer collaboration.

As part of their visit, the delegation also had the opportunity to visit the INS Mormugao, the latest indigenous destroyer of the Indian Navy. This visit underscored the ongoing enhancement of cooperation between India and the UK in various defence-related domains.

Notably, the recent bilateral exercise Konkan-23, conducted in March 2023, served as a testament to the continuous efforts of both countries in fortifying maritime security and upholding a rules-based order in the region, as highlighted by the Navy.

This current visit by the Defence Select Committee further strengthens the growing cooperation between the UK and India as two maritime nations striving for enhanced interoperability across different domains. With shared interests in the Indian Ocean Region and a mutual commitment to promoting peace and stability, both countries are resolute in their determination to collaborate effectively in the region.

Source PTI