Thai Royal Navy sails into Russia’s Pacific capital

Two Thai frigates are seen in pictures here in Vladivostok on a goodwill mission by the country’s Royal Navy.

The visiting  sailors were celebrating the Thai New Year as they arrived in the Russian Pacific capital. 

Rear Admiral Chanin Padunkin, commander of the Thai navy squadron, said: “I would like to thank the Russian Navy for their warm welcome.

‘The purpose of the visit of a detachment of Thai ships to the capital of Primorye is to strengthen relations between our countries.’

Rear Admiral Valery Kazakov welcomed the guests which ‘strengthen mutual trust’ between the two nations. 

It is the first such visit for 15 years and comes as relations between Russia and Thailand are deepening.

The Naresuan is reported to be Thailand’s most powerful frigate. 

‘The purpose of the visit of a detachment of Thai ships to the capital of Primorye is to strengthen relations between our countries.’ Pictures: VL.ru, Pattaya People

A sailor said: ‘Your weather is very different from ours. We are cold.’

Instead they played football and volleyball in friendly matches against their Russian hosts. 

The Thais opened their warships to Vladivostok residents.

Russian welcome for Thai warships HTMS Bangpakong and HTMS Naresuan from the Pacific Fleet Command. Pictures: Vl.ru