Thai PM present on navy ship for International Fleet Review 2017 procession

Bangkok (NNT/VNA) – Thailand's Prime Minister was aboard the HTMS Thalang to take part in the International Fleet Review 2017, which was officially opened on November 19 in Chonburi province as part of celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). 

Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister, Gen Prawit Wongsuwan, chaired the opening ceremony of the International Fleet Review 2017, remarking that the event underlined the Royal Thai Navy’s readiness to work with its counterparts in ASEAN along with the bloc’s allies, as well as the Ministry of Defense’s capability to help ensure regional security. 

Royal Thai Navy Commander, Admiral Naris Pratumsuwan, alongside the Governor of Chonburi province and the mayor of Pattaya City, oversaw a parade in Pattaya to launch the review. The opening ceremony included a weapons display by cadets of the Naval Ratings' School and a procession celebrating the 50th anniversary of the founding of ASEAN. 

A 12 man parachute display, in which jumpers displayed flags of the 10 ASEAN nations, the ASEAN flag and the flag of the Royal Thai Navy, preceded the activities of the review. Yesterday these included a demonstration of rescues on open water and cooperation between the navy, government agencies and the private sector. 

The colorful activities attracted the interest of tourists, many of whom traveled to Pattaya expressly to view the event and braved rains to see the events unfold. 

This morning, 40 warships from 18 countries conducted a parade at sea with Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-ocha and his deputy Gen Prawit onboard HTMS Thalang. The procession showcased the capabilities of the participating nations as well as the strength of their alliance.-VNA