The Vietnamese ship and delegation were welcomed at a solemn ceremony held at the port.
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A navigator instructing Ship 20 to dock at the port |
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Ship 20 anchoring at the port of Visakhapatnam city |
In a welcome message to participating countries to the MILAN 2024, Admiral R. Hari Kumar, Chief of the Indian Navy, informed that this year’s exercise is themed “Camaraderie, Cohesion, Collaboration.” Taking place from February 19 to 27, the event will be held on shore and in the Eastern waters of the port city.
As scheduled, the MILAN 2024 exercise has two phases: Operation at wharf and field exercise at sea. During the event, participating navies will engage in such activities as street parade, sport and cultural exchanges, and visits.
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The Indian Navy holding a welcome ceremony for Ship 20 and the Vietnam People’s Navy delegation |
The opening ceremony of the MILAN 2024 is slated for February 21.
This is the third time the Vietnam People’s Navy has taken part in the MILAN exercise in India. Through this event, the Vietnamese navy will continue to boost coordination capability in responding to maritime security challenges, promote friendship, mutual understanding and trust among militaries and navies for peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the region and the world.
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The Indian Navy holding a welcome ceremony for Ship 20 and the Vietnam People’s Navy delegation |
The exercise is also a chance for the Vietnamese Navy to conduct long-distance seafaring training, improve organization, coordination, combat readiness capability, and mastery of weapons and equipment for troops during long-day voyage and in complicated weather conditions. It also gives them an opportunity to gain experience in joining and organizing international events, and grasp situations at sea.
From February 8-11, Ship 20 paid a friendship visit to Malaysia. After the visit, the ship travelled more than 1,400 nautical miles from Lumut Naval Port of Malaysia to the Indian port city of Visakhapatnam, ensuring absolute safety.
By Vu Hung from Visakhapatnam, India
Translated by Mai Huong