South African Navy ship ‘Spioenkop’ arrives at the Port of Colombo
 

The South African Navy Ship ‘Spioenkop’ arrived at the Port of Colombo on 12^th February 2016 on a goodwill visit. The Valour class frigate was ceremonially welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy in accordance with naval traditions on her arrival.

SAS ‘Spioenkop’ is enroute to Goa to take part in a Multinational Naval Exercise, IBSAMAR, involving the navies of India, Brazil and South Africa, after having participated in the International Fleet Review, hosted by the Indian Navy in Vishakhapatnam from 4^th to 8^th February 2016.

The Commanding Officer, Captain M.A. Boucher paid a courtesy call on the Commander Western Naval Area, Rear Admiral Jayantha De Silva at the Western Naval Command Headquarters in Colombo. They held cordial discussions and exchanged mementos to mark the occasion.

The South African Naval ship will stay in Colombo Harbour till 15^th February and the ship’s complement is due to participate in several programmes organized by the Sri Lanka Navy to strengthen the mutual relations during their stay in Sri Lanka. An “Open Day” will also be held onboard ‘Spioenkop’ to enhance the inter-personal interaction between the SLN and SAN personnel.