New Zealand's Largest Tanker, HMNZS Aotearoa, Arrives in Ho Chi Minh City for 50th Anniversary Visit
HMNZS Aotearoa, New Zealand's largest replenishment tanker, has arrived in Ho Chi Minh City, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties and a recent upgrade to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The ship, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Robert Welford, is on its second visit to the city in three years, reflecting strengthening defence ties between the two nations.
The 173.2-metre long, 24.5-metre wide ship, with a displacement of 26,000 tonnes, docked at Nhà Rồng-Khánh Hội International Port on October 23. During its stay, the ship's officers will pay courtesy calls on local leaders, and the crew will engage in cultural exchanges and a joint exercise with their Vietnamese counterparts. This visit also provides logistical support for naval operations and is designed for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions.
The ship's commander, Lieutenant Colonel Robert Welford, is expected to discuss potential measures to strengthen defence cooperation between New Zealand and Vietnam. These could include military exchanges, security dialogues, joint exercises, capacity building, and international sorted operations. However, specific plans involving Lieutenant Colonel Welford have not been officially announced.
HMNZS Aotearoa's visit to Ho Chi Minh City underscores the growing defence ties between New Zealand and Vietnam. As the two nations celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations and a upgraded partnership, this visit offers an opportunity to explore further collaboration in defence and security.
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