BNS Bangabandhu calls at Kochi port

Kochi: Bangladeshi frigate "Bangabandhu", the flagship of its Navy, has arrived in the city on a four-day visit to India, en route to Doha.

The ship, which arrived here on November 2, is on its way to Doha to participate in `Exercise Ferocious Falcon.` A host of professional and social interactions have been scheduled between the two Navies, a naval press release said. Tariq Ahmad Karim, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to India also flew in to Kochi to welcome Bangabandhu on it`s arrival. Welcoming Indian Naval Officers on board his ship yesterday for a reception, Captain Mir Ershad Ali, Commanding Officer of Bangabandhu spoke with nostalgia of Kochi as he had undergone part of his training here. Speaking on the occasion, Karim made out a convincing case for more engagement and closer relations between Bangladesh and India. He spoke of historical and civilisational links between the two neighbours, the release said. In his reply, Vice Admiral Satish Soni, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, echoed the sentiments and spoke of the warm hospitality which the Indian Navy receives during visits to Bangladesh. He also expressed Indian Navy`s readiness to train more officers from Bangladesh Navy in its training establishments. The High Commissioner also visited Headquarters of the Southern Naval Command and called on Vice Admiral Soni today. The ship will leave Kochi tomorrow. PTI