New Zealand Navy Chief Visits India to Strengthen Maritime Ties

New Delhi: Rear Admiral Garin Golding, Chief of Navy, Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN), is on an official visit to India from March 16 to 21, 2025, as part of efforts to bolster maritime cooperation and deepen bilateral defence relations between the two nations. His engagements span New Delhi and Mumbai, focusing on high-level discussions, strategic collaborations, and operational interactions.

Rear Admiral Golding’s visit commenced with his participation in the Raisina Dialogue on March 17, where he engaged in discussions on regional security and Indo-Pacific stability. On March 18, he laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, honoring India’s fallen heroes, followed by a ceremonial Guard of Honour. He later met Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), where discussions centered on joint training, operational synergy, and strengthening naval partnerships.

The New Zealand Navy Chief is also scheduled to hold meetings with senior Indian defence officials, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Air Staff, and Defence Secretary, underscoring New Zealand’s commitment to regional security and collaboration.

During the Mumbai leg of his visit, Rear Admiral Golding will interact with Western Naval Command personnel and visit INS Surat, an indigenous destroyer, to explore opportunities for cooperation in ship maintenance, technology, and future joint initiatives. A key highlight of his visit will be a reception onboard HMNZS Te Kaha on March 20, hosted by the Prime Minister of New Zealand, further reinforcing the growing maritime relationship between India and New Zealand.