New Delhi. Indian Naval Ship Shardul entered Port Antsiranana, Madagascar on March 10. The ship was carrying 600 tonnes of rice as per directives of Government of India.

An official ceremony for handing over the rice from the Government of India to Government of Madagascar was held onboard INS Shardul at 0900 h on March 12. The ceremony was attended by the Madagascar Foreign Minister Dr Tehindrazanarivelo Djacoba and various high ranking officials from the Madagascar defence forces and civilian organisations.

The Indian side was represented by the Ambassador of India to Madagascar Abhay Kumar and the ship’s Commanding Officer Cdr Abhishek Pathak.

The Madagaskar Foreign Minister appreciated the assistance provided by India and the Indian Navy. He described India as a true friend who is always there during the time of need. He wished that the ties between the two countries will reach newer heights in the days to come.