Colonel II Masaaki, commander of training vessel unit No. 1 along with officers from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's training ship HATAKAZE and Murasame-class destroyer JS Inazuma paid a virtual courtesy call on Da Nang’s leaders on Friday.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force ships arrived in Da Nang on Thursday morning for a three-day visit to the coastal city.

Also present at the virtual event were leaders of the Da Nang Department of Foreign Affairs, the Border Guard Command and the Military Command of Da Nang, along with Japanese Consul General in Da Nang Yakabe Yoshinori.

During the virtual meeting, Da Nang People's Committee Vice Chairman Le Quang Nam said that Da Nang is proud to host the visit of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force ships in the context of global COVID-19 outbreak. Mr Nam remarked that the visit helps to strengthen bilateral relations between Viet Nam and Japan as well as deepen the bilateral extensive strategic partnership for peace and prosperity in Asia btween the two countries.

Vice Chairman stated that Da Nang held the position as one of major gateways to the East Sea, thereby asking for help from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force to support the city’s efforts in search and rescue activities, humanitarian assistance, as well to ensure the security and safety at sea.

Colonel II Masaaki took the opportunity to thank Da Nang’s leaders and representatives of relevant agencies for their support to make the visit successful in order to boost the bilateral ties between Viet Nam and Japan.

Reporting by LE HUNG – translating by H.L