Cruiser Moskva visited Manila

15.05.2010 Black Sea Fleet (BSF) flagship Guard missile cruiser Moskva paid Friday a formal visit to port of Manila, capital of Philippines, reports BSF information support group.

This visit has become the first call of Russian warship at a port of Philippines within last 94 years.

"The cruiser entered Manila harbor accompanied by Philippines Coast Guard ship and moored at honorable place next to the the presidential yacht", says the press release.

Upon arrival, representatives of port authorities, sanitary service, and Russian military attaché came on board the ship to settle replenishment of supplies and recreation of the crew.

Cruise commanding officer Capt 1 rank Igor Smolyak and commander of cruiser Moskva Guard Capt 1 rank Sergei Tronev visited acting Philippines Navy Commander Vice Admiral Golez and future Navy Commander Rear Admiral Cortez.

As for Philippines Navy Commander, Russian Navy is one of the world's most powerful; he wished well-being to Russian sailors. The admiral congratulated the crew on the anniversary of Black Sea Fleet which had been celebrated the previous day, and assured that Philippines were always glad to see Russian ships visiting ports of the country.

Later on, Russian sailors were invited to Manila city hall where they met with mayor secretary Gemma Cruz-Araneta and then with the marshal of Manila. They assured Russian officers that the crew could consider themselves in Manila at home. The mayor secretary gave symbolic key from Manila to Capt 1 rank Smolyak.

Afternoons, Russian warship was visited by Russian ambassador to Philippines Vitaly Vorobyov. Honor guard saluted arrival of the diplomat. The ambassador greeted BSF mariners and pointed out that "this visit will definitely contribute to strengthening of bilateral relations and help the people of the two countries to understand each other better".