NEW DELHI: An Indian warship led the mobile fleet review at the 50th Independence Day celebrations of Papua New Guinea, which is the largest nation in the Pacific Island countries that has been witnessing a tussle between China and other world powers for strategic influence.INS Kadmatt, an indigenously built anti-submarine warfare corvette with a displacement of 3,000-tonne, led the fleet review of seven warships from five countries, including France and Australia, sailing with precision in the harbour of Port Moresby on Thursday.“It symbolised the growing friendship and maritime partnership between India and Papua New Guinea, while reinforcing the increasing interoperability among the navies of like-minded countries of the Indo-Pacific. It also underscored the Indian Navy’s rising reputation as the preferred security partner in the region,” an officer said on Saturday.“The Indian warship’s goodwill visit symbolises India’s commitment to strengthening its engagement with Pacific Island countries under the `Act East’ policy and promoting peace, stability, and inclusive growth in the region,” he added.India has been stepping-up its engagement with the Pacific Island countries, which straddle crucial sea lanes, in recent years. PM Narendra Modi had visited Papua New Guinea in 2023 to hold a summit with the Pacific Island countries and announce a development-oriented 12-step action plan to strengthen partnership with the region.“India and Papua New Guinea are committed to deepening bilateral relations, expanding development partnerships and enhancing defence cooperation. The Indian Navy remains steadfast in fulfilling its diplomatic role of building ‘bridges of friendship’, connecting nations through goodwill port calls, capacity-building initiatives and collaborative maritime efforts,” the officer said.