Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) vessel, Kunisaki, and its 400 crew members docked at Tien Sa port, Da Nang city on June 6, marking the start of a visit to Vietnam, under the Pacific Partnership 2014 Program.

During the nine-day visit, the delegation from the US, Australia and Japan will focus discussions on advanced healthcare, army cooperation and construction,

JMSDF Capt. Yoichi Matsui, Pacific Partnership Deputy Commander said that it is a great honour for him to represent his country's participation in the Pacific Partnership Program and has received great applause. He expressed his hope that the program will be successful.

The delegation will pay a courtesy visit to Da Nang city’s leaders and took part in cultural and sports exchange activities.

The Pacific Partnership Program was launched by the US in 2004 following tsunami disaster which destroyed many areas in South East Asia. The program has so far provided health check-ups for more than 250,000 patients and completed 170 infrastructure projects in Asian nations.

VOV