JAPAN-COASTGUARD 2 LAST

The MoC between the two CGs encompasses the issues of
maritime search and rescue, combating marine pollution,
technical assistance for responding to natural disasters and
exchange of information regarding crimes at sea including
smuggling and illicit trafficking.
"The last meeting between the two CG chiefs took place
in May 2007 in Japan and the present visit is expected to
provide a fresh impetus to the strong ties existing between
the two CGs," the ICG spokesperson said.
The dedicated, focussed and regular interaction
between the CGs of the two countries began following the
apprehension of the pirated vessel MV Alondra Rainbow by the
Indian Coast Guard on November 16, 1999, off the west coast of
India.
The first ICG-JCG combined exercises were carried out
in November 2000 off Chennai in which one JCG ship also
participated.
It was overseen by a high level delegation of JCG led
by its Commandant and it laid the foundation for development
of close interaction between the two organisations that
included regular visits, joint exercises, sharing of
information, expertise and training. PTI