Crew members of the Indian Navy's ship INS Darshak and representatives of the High Command of the Vietnam People's Navy, the HCM City Department of External Relations, and the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defence pose for a group photo. (Photo: VNA)

Speaking at a press briefing on board, Thomas said that the visit marks an important milestone in bilateral cooperation between India and Vietnam. It further strengthens the India–Vietnam partnership in the Indo-Pacific region, contributing to maritime security and safety, sustainable marine resource management, and strategic regional integration.

According to the HCM City Department of Foreign Affairs, during their stay, the ship’s officers and crew will lay a wreath in tribute to President Ho Chi Minh at his statue on Nguyen Hue walking street, pay courtesy calls on leaders of the municipal People’s Committee, Military Region 7 Command, and Naval Region 2 Command.

The Indian officers and sailors will also visit cultural and historical sites in the city, participate in friendly sports exchanges with the Vietnam People’s Navy, and host local delegations on guided tours of INS Darshak.

INS Darshak is equipped with state-of-the-art survey and digital data processing systems, and modern sonar, water column density measurement tools, and tidal and meteorological sensors.