On the morning of October 27, 2024, the Vietnam Coast Guard (CSB) Region 1 Command held a ceremony to bid farewell to the delegation and crew of the CSB ship 8004 (Squadron 11) as they embarked on a visit and exchange with the South Korean Coast Guard. The ceremony was attended by Major General Tran Van Tho, Commander of CSB Region 1, and Major General Tran Van Hau, Political Commissar of CSB Region 1.
In his speech, Major General Tran Van Tho emphasized that the mission of sending the Vietnam Coast Guard ship to South Korea for this visit and exchange was in line with the directives of the Central Military Commission and the Ministry of National Defense on international integration and defense diplomacy. This visit is part of implementing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two forces in 2007. Through this trip, Vietnam’s Coast Guard officers and South Korea’s Coast Guard have the opportunity to interact, learn from each other, and exchange experiences in maritime law enforcement. It will also contribute to strengthening mutual understanding, trust, and cooperation between the two coast guard forces.
The delegation, led by Colonel Le Thanh Hai, Deputy Commander of CSB Region 1, will participate in various activities during the visit, including courtesy meetings with local authorities and the leadership of the South Korean Coast Guard, as well as exchanging operational experiences with the South Korean Coast Guard Academy and other units. The visit will also feature joint search and rescue training, firefighting exercises, sports competitions, and cultural exchanges, alongside a celebratory banquet hosted by both forces.
Additionally, the trip aims to enhance leadership, operational skills, and proficiency in handling weapons and equipment during extended sea operations. This will provide valuable experience in organizing and participating in defense diplomacy activities for the Vietnam Coast Guard. The success of this mission will further demonstrate the growing strength, role, and global stature of the Vietnam Coast Guard in the region and worldwide.