Visit of Peruvian Sail Training Ship B.A.P. Union to Mumbai

Buque Armada Peruana (B.A.P.) Unión, a Sail Training Tall Ship of the Peruvian Navy is on a goodwill visit to Mumbai from 31 Oct to 05 Nov 2023. On arrival at Mumbai, the ship saluted the flag of Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command by firing of 15 ceremonial gun salvos. The ship was extended a traditional welcome with Indian Navy band in attendance.

Coinciding with this visit, HE Javier Manuel Paulinich Velarde, Ambassador of Peru to India, is also at Mumbai. The Ambassador interacted with Vice Adm Dinesh K Tripathi, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, onboard BAP Unión.

The Commanding Officer, BAP Unión laid a wreath at Gaurav Stambh and called on Rear Adm Kunal Singh Rajkumar, Chief Staff Officer (Operations), Headquarters Western Naval Command on 01 Nov 23. During the interaction, issues of mutual interests, training and feasibility of enhancing maritime cooperation between the two navies were discussed.

During the ship’s stay in harbour, personnel of the two navies will engage in professional interactions to share best practices. The two navies will also participate in a beach cleanship drive at Girgaon Chowpatty as a novel way to give back to the community.

Traditionally, gun salutes are a mark of respect paid to the senior naval officer by a warship coming into the naval harbour for the first time. The tradition continues todate and most modern warships are fitted with ceremonial guns for this purpose. India and Peru, celebrate 60th year of diplomatic relations this year, a relationship that has matured over the years. The two countries, though situated in different continents, have shared maritime interests and aim to further extend the bilateral cooperation.