New Delhi, Nov 20 (IANS): India Navy Ship Airavat, carrying food for South Sudan, reached the Port of Mombasa in Kenya on Friday in continuation of the ongoing humanitarian mission initiated by Indian government. AA

South Sudan gained independence in July 2011 but descended into conflict roughly two-and-a-half years later, following irreconcilable tensions. Starvation has become a major issue in South Sudan.

India is providing assistance to friendly foreign countries to overcome natural calamities and Covid-19 pandemic, and towards the same INS Airavat is carrying food aid for the people of South Sudan.

The Mission Sagar-II is aligned with Prime Minister Modi's vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (Sagar) and reiterates India's position as a dependable partner in Indian Ocean Region with Indian Navy as the principle maritime agency and first responder in the maritime domain.

The mission also highlights the importance accorded by India to relations with South Sudan and further strengthens the existing bond.

The strong bonds of friendship and brotherly relations between India and countries in Africa have been forged and strengthened over several centuries.

"India has always stood in solidarity with the countries and people in Africa and has partnered in undertaking development, capacity building and humanitarian assistance programme," Commander Vivek Madhwal said.

The Indian Navy is carrying out this mission in close coordination with the Ministries of Defence and External Affairs, and other agencies of the Indian government.