INS Trikand in Istanbul

INS Trikand, India's latest frontline warship, reached Istanbul on Sunday on a three-day visit to engage extensively with the Turkish Navy.

"Apart from professional interactions, a number of sports and social engagements are also planned, which would go a long way in enhancing cooperation and understanding towards mutually beneficial issues of maritime interest," the defence ministry said in a statement.

The ship, built in Russia and commissioned into the Indian navy in 2013, entered Istanbul as a part of Indian Navy's overseas deployment to west Asia, Africa and Europe.

The ship is part of India's western fleet.

"The visit seeks to underscore India's peaceful presence and solidarity with friendly countries and to strengthen the existing bonds between India and Turkey," the defence ministry said.

Bilateral naval relations are expected to strengthen further due to the planned visit of a Turkish warship for the international fleet review at Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh in February 2016, it added.

Indian naval ships are regularly deployed as a part of the navy's mission of building 'bridges of friendship' and strengthening global cooperation with the friendly countries.