A FRENCH Naval Vessel, La Gracieuse, from neighbouring Cayene, French Guiana arrived at Port Georgetown on Saturday morning and is docked at the Coast Guard Ship Hinds Wharf, Ruimveldt.

The vessel is commanded by Lieutenant Navy Yann-Eric Noat and has on board 4 Officers, 18 Petty Officers and 8 seamen.

Lieutenant Noat explained that the vessel has come with three missions, the most important of which is to secure the maritime area of the airspace centre in Kourou, Cayene. further stated that the vessel’s presence forms part of an effort to contribute to the fight against illegal fishing off the Coast of French Guiana. Thirdly, he stated that the French Navy and the Coast Guard have enjoyed friendly relations and as such this visit will serve to build on and strengthen those existing ties.

Sister vessels from the French Navy make annual port calls to Georgetown.

The crew members hosted an informal luncheon as well as a cocktail reception on board the vessel for Chief of Staff Brigadier, Mark Phillips and other Senior Officers, on Saturday.

Before the vessel departs on Tuesday, the French Officers will also pay a formal courtesy call to Brigadier Phillips and the Mayor of Georgetown.