Tema, Feb. 16, GNA - A French naval vessel "La Foudre" on Monday berthed at the Tema Port for a three-day goodwill visit to the country. Briefing newsmen on arrival at the port, the Commander of the Ship, Captain Emmanuel Gue said the visit is to reinforce the existing cordial relation between the French and Ghanaian naval forces. He said while in the country the crew members would have exchange programmes, such as exercises at sea, alongside training on the use of modern equipment with their Ghanaian counterparts.

Captain Gue said while they wish to impart their rich knowledge to their counterparts they also intend learning from them as well. The Captain said the French navy ship's main role is to carry out amphibious operation and training at sea. He said the crew on board the vessel is composed of 17 officers, 205 petty officers and seamen of which 20 percent are women, adding that, it can take 470 passengers. Earlier, Captain Gue paid a courtesy call on Nii Osonga Adjei Kraku, the chief of Tema at his palace to announce their arrival in the country.

The Mantse appealed to the French government to deepen the existing relations between Ghana and France by assisting to develop the city. The two exchanged gifts with the Captain presenting a carved wooden frame with the symbol of France and assorted drinks to the Tema Traditional Council while Nii Osonga Kraku also gave out a miniature stool with the symbol of Tema embossed on it and a sash.