Mon Jul 07 21:46:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article based on that information:

**Summary:**

The Japan Coast Guard Ship (JCGS) Itsukushima arrived at Chennai Port on July 7, 2025, for a six-day visit as part of its “Global Ocean Voyage Training” program. The visit signifies the strong relationship between the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the JCG, aimed at enhancing interoperability and strategic partnership in the Indo-Pacific region. The visit includes official calls, joint training, and a sea exercise named ‘Jaa Mata.’ Further collaboration includes a Sea Riders exchange program where Indian officers will travel on the Itsukushima to Singapore. The initiative aligns with the vision of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, reflecting shared maritime priorities under India’s SAGAR initiative and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.

**News Article:**

**Japan Coast Guard Ship Arrives in Chennai, Strengthening Indo-Pacific Maritime Ties**

*Chennai, July 8, 2025* – The Japan Coast Guard Ship (JCGS) Itsukushima docked at Chennai Port yesterday, July 7, 2025, marking the beginning of a six-day visit as part of its “Global Ocean Voyage Training” program. The arrival underscores the growing maritime cooperation between India and Japan, solidifying their strategic partnership in the Indo-Pacific region.

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) hailed the visit as a testament to the “deep and enduring bond” between the two nations’ coast guard forces. The JCGS Itsukushima, commanded by Captain Naoki Mizoguchi, received a traditional Indian welcome upon arrival, complete with a ceremonial greeting by NCC cadets and the Indian Army Band.

During the visit, the Japanese crew will engage in a series of activities, including official courtesy calls, reciprocal ship visits, and joint training sessions with their Indian counterparts. High-level discussions are planned between Vice Admiral Hroaki Kaosue of the JCG and Director General Paramesh Sivamani of the ICG, as well as Additional Director General Donny Michael.

Following the port call, the JCGS Itsukushima will participate in a joint sea exercise with the ICG, dubbed “Jaa Mata” (meaning ‘see you later’ in Japanese). The exercise aims to improve coordination and operational effectiveness at sea. Furthermore, four ICG officers will join the JCGS Itsukushima on its voyage to Singapore as part of the Sea Riders exchange program, fostering further camaraderie and collaboration.

This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, aligned with India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative. Officials from both sides emphasized that the JCGS Itsukushima’s visit is a significant step in advancing maritime diplomacy, enhancing operational synergy, and deepening mutual trust between the two Coast Guard forces.

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