Australian Warship Visits Vanuatu
Royal Australian Navy frigate HMAS Parramatta has departed Port Vila, Vanuatu, after a successful visit to strengthen relationships and security cooperation with the Pacific Island nation, informs Australia's Department of Defence.
During her four day stay, Parramatta’s crew of 190 combined training and community engagement before returning to maritime patrol duties in the region.
Commanding Officer Commander Simon Cannell said there was great value in investing in the relationship between Australia and Vanuatu.
“During our time in Port Vila, we took part in a joint training exercise with the Pacific Patrol Boat RVS Tukoro, operated by the Vanuatu Police Force Maritime Wing.
During the exercises, we conducted a crew exchange, so some members of our ship’s company were able to experience life at sea on a Pacific Patrol Boat."
A number of the crew also had the opportunity to meet members of the Malapoa community, when they painted a school classroom,” Cmdr. Cannell said.
The Dept. of Defence explains that Parramatta is conducting a four week South West Pacific deployment, undertaking maritime surveillance patrols as part of Operation Solania which aims to detect and deter illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing activity.
“The operation assists South Pacific Island states to protect their fisheries and natural resources, helping to foster economic development and stability in the region, which is in Australia’s strategic interest,” Cmdr. Cannell added.