Coast Guard, Pakistan maritime agency extend MoU for another 5 years

New Delhi

Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) have extended for another five years from March 17 their MoU on cooperation in combating smuggling, illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs and piracy, and coordination in search and rescue and return sea passage among other areas.

The MOU has been extended by mutual consent through diplomatic channels, External Affairs Ministry announced today.

“The MoU, signed on 3 October 2005, had come into effect on 16 March 2006.

“It envisaged cooperation between ICG and PMSA through exchange of information on EEZ violations, apprehended vessels, marine pollution, natural disasters/calamities, combating smuggling, illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs and piracy, and coordination in search and rescue and return sea passage.

“It also established a communication link which is operational. Under the provisions of the MoU, Directors General of ICG and PMSA meet periodically,” the ministry said.

PTI