India, Kenya sign MoU for shipbuilding collaboration

Source: The post is based on the article “India, Kenya sign MoU for shipbuilding collaboration” published in “The Hindu” on 30th August 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

News: Goa Shipyard Limited in India and Kenya Shipyard Limited have agreed to work together on ship design and construction. They’re also talking about boosting defense cooperation and maritime security between India and Kenya.

What are the key outcomes of the meeting between India’s Defense Minister and Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Defense?

Collaboration on Shipbuilding: Goa Shipyard Limited and Kenya Shipyard Limited signed an MoU for mutual work in ship design and construction.

Evolved Defense Ties: The defense relationship between India and Kenya expanded from primarily training-focused to encompass strategic aspects.

Maritime Security: Both ministers emphasized the importance of deeper cooperation in safeguarding the Indian Ocean region.

Gift Exchange: As a sign of friendship, India presented Kenya with 15 pairs of parachutes, manufactured by Gliders India Limited, for the Kenyan forces. Additionally, India pledged support to establish an advanced CT scan facility in Kenya.

Training Initiatives: There was a suggestion for the ‘training of trainers’ of the Kenyan forces by Indian armed forces’ instructors. They also decided on joint training in counter-insurgency and UN peacekeeping.

Acknowledgment of Indian Defense Industry: Mr. Aden Bare Duale appreciated India’s growing defense industry and pointed out areas where India can cater to Kenyan forces’ needs.