(UDHAYAM, COLOMBO) – An Anzac-Class frigate of the Royal Australian Navy, HMAS ‘Arunta’ arrived at the Port of Colombo on Monday (10) on a goodwill visit. The ship was ceremonially welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy in accordance with naval traditions, on her arrival.
The ship which is 118m in length and 14.8m in width is comprised of a crew of 190 including 24 officers. Upon their arrival, the Commanding Officer of the ship, Commander CWR Steil accompanied by several senior officers called on the Commander Western Naval Area, Rear Admiral Niraja Attygalle at the Western Naval Command Head Quarters and held cordial discussions.
During their four-day official visit, the ship’s crew is expected to take part in several programmes including passage exercises, friendly sport events and several cultural programmes, organised by the Sri Lanka Navy to enhance mutual relations and interactions. The Australian ship is expected to leave from Colombo Harbour on July 14, on completion of its tour.
Displaying the long standing camaraderie and relationship between the two countries and their navies, the Australian Government donated a large consignment of relief aid and 10 small boats to Sri Lanka during recent floods that wreak havoc in Sri Lanka.
