The vessel docked at Tien Sa Port under the command of Colonel Joe Takemasa, head of Escort Flotilla No. 2, accompanied by about 220 officers and sailors.
During the visit from April 2 to April 5, the ship’s command group is scheduled to pay courtesy calls on leaders of the Danang people’s committee and the Naval Region 3 command.
Colonel Joe Takemasa said he was pleased to return to Vietnam. He noted that this is the first visit of Asahi to Danang, while it is his second visit to the city in three years, having previously served as captain of the Izumo. He expressed admiration for the city’s development and hospitality.
Alongside formal diplomatic engagements, the Japanese delegation will take part in a range of exchange activities, including a press briefing, a reception on board, and sporting events with personnel from Naval Region 3. The delegation will also lay wreaths at the city’s martyrs memorial and visit local cultural and scenic sites.
The visit comes as Vietnam and Japan relations continue to develop positively, particularly following their upgrade to a comprehensive strategic partnership in November 2023.
According to the Danang department of foreign affairs, the visit is not only a military diplomatic activity but also contributes to strengthening mutual understanding and trust, in line with efforts to promote defence cooperation and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.
Both sides are also expected to conduct a joint exercise at sea, known as PASSEX, providing an opportunity for naval forces to exchange professional expertise and further enhance mutual trust and understanding.