INS Sudarshini arrives in US, to take part in 250th anniversary celebrations
The ship arrived in Baltimore, Maryland, on June 26. An Indian Navy spokesperson said that before arriving there, ‘Sudarshini’ attended the Sail 250 Virginia celebrations in Norfolk from 19 to 23 June, joining tall ships from around the world and representing India at the Sail Parade and City Crew Parade.
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As part of the anniversary celebrations, the US hosted a series of events across the country and other countries, including India, under the banner of ‘Freedom 250’.
The United States celebrates the anniversary of its independence every year on July 4, popularly known as 4th of July celebrations.
The sail training ship arrived in Baltimore as part of the landmark trans-oceanic expedition ‘Lokayan 26’, the spokesperson said.
The passage from Norfolk involved passage on the historic Chesapeake & Delaware (C&D) canal, which runs under major bridges across the mid-Atlantic. “INS Sudarshini’s visit to Baltimore highlights India’s rich maritime heritage and the enduring ties of friendship and cooperation between the Indian Navy and the US Navy,” he said.
During its stay, the ship will conduct maritime activities and community outreach activities ahead of the Sail 250 Maryland celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States, the official said.
“The trans-oceanic voyage from Kochi to Norfolk, covering over 13,000 nautical miles in five months, stands as a testament to India’s maritime traditions and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam spirit, strengthening friendship, cooperation and mutual trust across oceans,” the official said. he said.
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The expedition is aimed to promote maritime outreach, strengthen international goodwill and showcase India’s rich maritime traditions.
Following successful port visits in West Asia, the Mediterranean, Europe and Africa, the ship has launched the Caribbean and America phase of the expedition, including participation in SAIL 250 events in the US, the Indian Navy said in a statement in May.
