The Indian Navy’s INS Tamal completed a successful three-day port visit to Casablanca, Morocco, enhancing naval cooperation between India and Morocco through joint exercises and cultural exchanges. The visit took place from 6–9 August 2025 as part of INS Tamal’s return journey to India after being commissioned in Russia on 1 July 2025.
Strengthening Bilateral Naval Cooperation
Key highlights of the port call at Casablanca:
- Bilateral discussions with senior Moroccan naval officials.
- Cross-deck visits for sharing operational insights.
- Sports matches to promote camaraderie between crews.
- Yoga sessions to showcase India’s cultural heritage.
- Cultural exchanges to honor the Indo-Moroccan friendship.
These activities aimed at reinforcing mutual respect, trust, and operational understanding between the Indian Navy and the Royal Moroccan Navy.
High-Level Interactions
During the port visit, INS Tamal’s crew engaged in interactions with prominent Moroccan military leaders:
- Captain Rachid Sadrhazi, Commander of the 1st Naval Base.
- Captain-Major Hasan Akouli, Commander of the Central Maritime Sector.
- Brigadier General Jamal Kaztouf, Delegated Commander of Weapons of Casablanca Area.
- Rear Admiral Mohamed Tahin, Rear-Admiral Inspector of the Royal Moroccan Navy.
The Indian Ambassador to Morocco, H.E. Shri Sanjay Rana, also visited INS Tamal to discuss avenues for enhanced defence collaboration.
Joint Naval Exercise at Sea
Upon departure from Casablanca, INS Tamal conducted a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Royal Moroccan Navy Ship Mohammed VI to practice interoperability, communication procedures, and coordinated manoeuvres, enhancing operational synergy.
Maritime Diplomacy and Strategic Significance
The visit highlights India’s commitment to strengthening defence partnerships in North Africa through maritime diplomacy. This stopover allowed both navies to exchange best practices, address maritime security challenges, and identify new areas of cooperation.
As INS Tamal continues its journey to India, it will visit various European and Asian ports, further expanding India’s naval outreach and reinforcing bilateral ties across regions.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams:
- INS Tamal completed a successful port visit to Casablanca, Morocco, enhancing India–Morocco naval ties.
- The visit included bilateral discussions, cultural exchanges, and a joint naval exercise.
- High-level interactions with Moroccan military leaders and the Indian Ambassador emphasized enhanced defence collaboration.
- The port call signifies India’s commitment to strengthening defence partnerships in North Africa through maritime diplomacy.
- INS Tamal’s journey showcases India’s naval outreach and efforts to bolster bilateral ties across regions.
