JEDDAH — As part of the three-day Cruise Training Task Group (CTTG), two Korean warships are docked at the Jeddah Islamic Port. On Tuesday, Korean Consul General Nak-Young Oh held a reception in honor of the crew of the two warships that include 632 sailors. Among the sailors are 144 midshipmen of the 70th class of the ROK Naval Academy to contribute to the ‘Rafiq' partnership through navy-to-navy interaction. Welcoming the guests on board the warships, the consul general said: "This year, the Jeddah Islamic Port has a special meaning for us as we are commemorating the 70th anniversary of both — Independence Day and the establishment of the navy of the Republic of Korea.” He said: "These days, naval forces gain ever-increasing importance in securing navigational safety and world peace. You are on broad naval ships built by Korean technology and know-how. Though the CTTG stays in Jeddah for a short period, I expect and hope that it will serve as a momentum for further promoting the existing naval cooperation between the Republic of Korea and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.” The Saudi Navy, local Korean residents and officials including Ambassador Kim Jin-soo welcomed the CTTG during its three-day visit. Rear Admiral Kim Jong-sam met with Rear Admiral Saeed Al-Zahrani at the Saudi Arabian Navy West Fleet and held discussions to expand exchange of navy personnel of the two countries. “Saudi Arabia supported the Republic of Korea with supplies during the Korean War to defend our liberal democracy. Saudi Arabia and Korea established diplomatic relationship in 1962, and since then Saudi Arabia has been our good friend, interacting with us in terms of politics, economy, and diplomacy," Kim Jong-sam said. "President Park Geun-hye paid a visit to Saudi Arabia in March, promising Saudi Arabia to cooperate in various areas including culture and military becoming a true 'Rafiq', and our goal is to contribute to that great cause.” he added. Aiming to provide midshipmen with hands-on experience, cultivate practical skills, adapt to ship environment and expand their horizons internationally, the cruise training began in 1954. The 70th class of the ROK Naval Academy embarks on an around-the-world cruise training, visiting 15 ports in 16 nations in Asia, Europe, and the Americas for 131 days, sailing a total of 30,297NM (approx. 56,100km). This visit marks CTTG 8th visit to Jeddah Islamic Port and 10th to the Kingdom.
