China Thanks India for Maritime Rescue Near Kerala

Photo: Pixabay

In a powerful display of international maritime cooperation, the Government of China has officially thanked India for its swift and life-saving response in rescuing the crew of a cargo ship engulfed in flames off the Kerala coast. The incident occurred in the early hours of June 10, when the Singapore-flagged merchant vessel “MV Cheng Tu” caught fire roughly 120 nautical miles southwest of Kochi, in the Arabian Sea.

The cargo ship, en route from China to Europe, reported a massive onboard blaze believed to have originated in the engine room. The situation escalated rapidly, with thick smoke spreading across multiple compartments and systems onboard failing under extreme heat.

India’s Indian Coast Guard (ICG) responded within minutes of receiving the distress call. Deploying two ships and one Dornier surveillance aircraft from Kochi, the ICG executed a high-risk search and rescue (SAR) operation under challenging wind and wave conditions.

The dramatic operation saved all 22 crew members, including 16 Chinese nationals, 4 Filipino sailors, and 2 Sri Lankan technicians, officials confirmed. No casualties or major injuries were reported.

Official Response from China:

In a formal statement released by the Chinese Foreign Ministry, spokesperson Lin Jian conveyed Beijing’s "sincere appreciation" to New Delhi, calling the act a “testament to shared maritime responsibility and humanitarian values.”

“India’s rapid response and professional rescue efforts reflect the highest standards of maritime safety. China deeply values this demonstration of goodwill,” said the ministry.

The Chinese Embassy in New Delhi also posted a message on X (formerly Twitter), applauding Indian authorities for “their heroic actions and the spirit of international cooperation.”

Strategic Implications:

This maritime collaboration comes at a time of nuanced diplomatic engagement between India and China. While broader geopolitical tensions persist—especially along the land border—incidents like these underscore the importance of maintaining open, operational lines in humanitarian and emergency contexts.

Naval analysts suggest such cooperative efforts help build confidence between nations, especially in the Indian Ocean region, where maritime safety and freedom of navigation remain high-priority concerns for both nations.

What’s Next for MV Cheng Tu?

The vessel remains adrift, with firefighting teams en route. Tugs and additional support from the Indian Navy and Singapore-based shipowner are coordinating salvage and tow operations. An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway.