HMCS Montréal Arrives in HCM City, Strengthening Canada-Vietnam Defense Ties

HCM City, The Gulf Observer: His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Montréal, a warship of the Royal Canadian Navy, docked at Nhà Rồng Port in Ho Chi Minh City on Thursday, marking the start of a five-day visit aimed at bolstering defense and diplomatic ties between Canada and Vietnam.

The visiting crew, led by Lieutenant Commander Travis Bain, was warmly welcomed by Senior Lieutenant Colonel Phan Anh Tuấn, deputy commander of Brigade 125, Naval Command, along with other civilian authorities. The visit underscores the growing partnership between the two nations, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

Canada’s ambassador to Vietnam, Shawn Steil, highlighted the significance of the visit, stating that it demonstrates Canada’s strong commitment to its dynamic partnership with Vietnam and the broader Indo-Pacific region. He noted that the visit would further promote the friendship and defense cooperation between the two countries.

During their stay, the Canadian crew will engage in a series of meetings, exchanges, and sports activities with their Vietnamese military and diplomatic counterparts. The itinerary also includes community support initiatives and cultural exchanges, such as a meeting with students from the University of Social Sciences and Humanities in Ho Chi Minh City and a visit to the “Tình Mẹ 2” charity shelter in Bình Dương Province. The crew will also experience local culture through a trip to Bến Thành Market and a lesson in making bánh xèo (crispy pancake).

Lieutenant Commander Bain expressed the crew’s excitement about the visit, noting that for many, this marks their first time in Vietnam.

This visit by HMCS Montréal, which is part of Operation HORIZON under Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, is a significant step in promoting freedom, stability, and a rules-based international order in the region. It also represents a milestone in the growing defense and diplomatic relations between Canada and Vietnam.