(VNF) - The Japanese Coast Guard patrol vessel Echigo arrived at Tien Sa Port in Danang on Wednesday (June 13) to begin six days of joint anti-piracy training exercises with the Vietnam and Philippines navies.

The ship crew, commanded by colonel Toyota Chikara, will visit Da Nang city, the command of Military Zone 5 and of the Border Guard Force, Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre No 2, and the Japanese Language Sakura Centre.

The ship will also conduct a joint exercise with Coast Guard Force, Zone 2, and take part in a volleyball match during the visit.

The visit continues to affirm the cooperation between Vietnam and Japan to ensure maritime security and safety in the region, according to the Vietnam News Agency.

The Japanese coast guard vessel arrives in Da Nang today (source: tuoitrenews)

From June 13 to 19, 85 officers and crew members of the ship will also tour the central city and meet local officials. They will also visit Hoi An and Hue.

The 3,100-ton Japanese vessel is 105.4 meters long and 14.6 meters wide.

Captain Toyota Chikara was quoted by Voice of Vietnam as saying that says this is the first Japanese patrol vessel to visit Da Nang since the two countries signed an agreement in September 2016 to boost maritime security

He also expressed hope that the two sides can take this visit as a good chance to learn from each other in implementing maritime laws and reinforce mutual understanding./.

( VNF )