Two Japanese warships sailed into Wellington Harbour this morning as part of a ceremonial port visit to the city.
The ships, helicopter destroyer JS Ise and destroyer JS Suzunami, were on an Indo-Pacific deployment and had arrived in the capital from Sydney.
“The intent of the deployment is to improve the JMSDF tactical capabilities and to strengthen cooperation and understanding with allied and partner navies in the Indo-Pacific, as well as contribute to the peace and stability of the region,” an NZDF spokesperson said.
HMNZS Canterbury, returning from the recent Exercise Talisman Sabre in Australia, escorted the two ships into Wellington.
Crewed by more than 500 sailors, the ships will be docked in Wellington for the next three days.
Shortly after the visit, HMNZS Aotearoa would be sailing to Japan to conduct monitoring of United Nations Sanctions.
“New Zealand and Japan have a strong and long-standing relationship with a shared commitment to global and regional security,” NZDF said.
The Japanese maritime self-defence force said the visit was to strengthen cooperation and understanding with its partners in the Indo-Pacific.
The morning’s headlines in 90 seconds, including a cold weekend on the way, Israel reveals a new plan in Gaza, and what not do when driving over a rail crossing. (Source: 1News)