French naval ship docks at Tema

A French Navy Ship, “Commandant BIROT”, on Monday docked at the Tema Harbour for a four-day visit to strengthen the existing ties between the French and Ghanaian Navy.

“Commandant BIROT”, under the command of Lieutenant-Commander Yves LE GOFF, would take part in common training activities, such as flashing lights trainings, safety exercise on board, fire fighting and flooding exercise.

The training would enable officers from the two countries to find common procedures in maintaining order in the Gulf of Guinea.

According to Lt-Commander GOFF, it would equip officers to fight illegal fishing activities, piracy, drug trafficking and smuggling, adding that the maritime economy is a real gift of Ghana because it’s strategically positioned and should be protected.

The ship has a staff of seven officers, 58 petty officers and 24 boatmen and sailors.

He said under the Corymbe Mission of the French Navy, a permanent presence of a naval force on the Gulf of Guinea, has been established to detect and prevent crisis.

He said as part of their co-operation with civil society in Ghana, the officers would renovate Orphan Aid, an orphanage.

Sub-Lieutenant Prince Sebastian Okyere, Ghana Navy Liaison Officer for the French ship, said the visit of the French Naval Ship and the training of personnel of the Ghana Navy, would help enrich their knowledge.