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The ‘Baisakhi Day’ of 2025 marks yet another mile stone day for Indian Navy as its one of the most ambitious exercise ever held at the high seas along the African continent were inaugurated.

Its known as AIKEYME that is Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement exercise.

Nine African nations are taking part in this maiden exercise with the Indian Naval warships.

On Sunday the 13th of April 2025, the auspicious Baisakhi Day for India, the MoS Defence Sanjay Seth had specially flown to Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania  and formally inaugurated AIKEYME onboard INS Chennai.

AIKEYME is co-hosted by India and Tanzania, involves participation from Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles and South Africa.

Sanhay Seth also joined the digital inauguration of Weapons Training Simulator facility established at Arusha and inauguration of Defence Expo.

In the Defence Expo, 22 companies from India are participating with their key products on display.

In his address, the MOS Defence emphasised on oneness, and unity of purpose to overcome the vast maritime challenges and to ensure a peaceful & prosperous future.

He recalled the age-old relations between India & Africa and reiterated the principle of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across the Region) for further strengthening the bond with our friends in Africa.

Sanjay Seth stressed on the African proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together,” highlighting the need for enduring partnerships in maritime security.

He expressed gratitude to Tanzania for hosting AIKEYME 25, marking a significant step towards long-term collaboration.

Sanjay Seth also briefly interacted with the crew of participating countries of the Exercise and IOS SAGAR ship.

He did a walkaround of INS Chennai. He gifted 15 sets of Parachutes, books for NDC and a Tri-Services War Gaming Simulator to Tanzania as a token of strong bonds and friendship between the two countries.

The exercise represents commitment of the participating countries to a free, open and secure Indian Ocean.

A new chapter has been added today to the growing relations between India and Africa.

AIKEYME 25 and IOS SAGAR symbolize a transformative journey towards enhanced multinational collaboration in securing the seas, forging connections that transcend borders.