Indian Naval Ship INS Kulish Concludes Successful 4-Day Visit to Cambodia, Strengthening Ties

The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Kulish has concluded its 4-day historic visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia, departing on September 15, 2026. This maiden docking at the Ream Naval Base in Preah Sihanouk Province, from September 12 to 15, 2026, marks a significant milestone in India-Cambodia naval relations. According to a press release from the Indian Embassy in Cambodia, the visit of INS Kulish contributed to strengthening the long-standing maritime partnership between India and Cambodia. It provided an opportunity for naval personnel from both countries to exchange experiences and knowledge in professional, operational, sports, and cultural spheres. During the visit, the commanding officer of INS Kulish paid courtesy calls to senior Cambodian leaders, including Rear Admiral Mie Dina, Commander of the Ream Naval Base; Mr. Mang Sineth, Governor of Preah Sihanouk Province; and Mr. Lu Kim Chhun, Government Delegate responsible for the General Director of the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port. These meetings allowed both sides to exchange views on maritime cooperation and explore new avenues to further build and strengthen the close cooperation between the Indian and Cambodian navies. A welcome dinner was hosted aboard INS Kulish, graced by the presence of H.E. General Tea Vinh, Secretary of State of the Ministry of National Defence, and H.E. Vanlalvawna Bawitlung, Indian Ambassador to Cambodia. Senior Cambodian officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and distinguished guests also attended. Furthermore, naval forces from both nations conducted joint drills focusing on three core skills vital for crew capability and ship management: damage inspection and repair, fire fighting, and first aid. A friendly volleyball match was also organized between the navies to foster interaction, camaraderie, and strengthen friendship among officers and sailors, laying a foundation for defense cooperation between the two countries. The Indian Embassy stated that the success of INS Kulish's visit demonstrates the scope and depth of progress in maritime cooperation between India and Cambodia. This docking continues the legacy of visits by Indian naval and coast guard ships to Cambodia, including INS Sudarshini in 2012, INS Ranvir and INS Kamorta in 2015, INS Kadmatt in 2017, ICGS Vijit, INS Sahyadri, and INS Kiltan in 2019, INS Kiltan under Mission SAGAR-III in 2020, INS Delhi and INS Satpura in 2023, and INS Sujata and ICGS Veera in 2025. The current visit of INS Kulish adds another new chapter to the journey of the "Friendship Bridge" between India and Cambodia.