Shabab Oman II sails for Europe on 7th international voyage
MUSCAT: The Royal Navy of Oman's (RNO) vessel Shabab Oman II left on Wednesday from Said Bin Sultan Naval Base, embarking on its seventh international voyage, 'Glories of the Seas', towards Europe.
The vessel carries the essence of Oman's rich maritime heritage and the achievements of its bright present, embodying the nation's enduring approach of fostering bonds of friendship, peace and harmony among the peoples of the world.
A formal farewell ceremony was held at Said Bin Sultan Naval Base under the auspices of Shaikh Abdulmalik bin Abdullah al Khalili, Chairman of the State Council. The event featured a visual presentation showcasing Oman's illustrious maritime history across the ages, highlighting the nation's seafaring legacy, contributions to navigation, and its role in strengthening ties between Oman and other civilisations. The Royal Oman Navy Band performed a musical display, presenting a variety of compositions.
Shaikh Abdulmalik bin Abdullah al Khalili, Chairman of the State Council, along with dignitaries, military leaders and senior guests, toured Shabab Oman II and received a briefing on the vessel, its voyage route and the national objectives of this journey. A visual presentation then highlighted the vessel's accomplishments during its regional and international voyages, as well as its role in promoting Omani culture worldwide.
Attendees also inspected the vessel's facilities and advanced maritime equipment, ensuring its readiness for the mission. The Naval Arts Team performed traditional maritime folk arts.
The ceremony was attended by several ministers, senior military and security officials, ambassadors from Arab and friendly countries, senior retired officers, military attachés and other distinguished guests.
During its seventh international voyage, Shabab Oman II will visit 30 destinations, docking at 24 ports across 15 countries. It will participate in the Bremerhaven Sail Festival, Amsterdam Sail Festival and the Tall Ships Races, along with other maritime festivals and celebrations. The six-month journey will cover over 18,000 nautical miles round trip. Accompanying the crew are 84 trainees from the Sultan's Armed Forces, other military and security services- and the Directorate-General of Scouts and Girl Guides at the Ministry of Education. The trainees will undergo a specialised programme covering sailing techniques, marine navigation, astronomy and other skills aimed at honing their practical and field capabilities. They will also help convey Oman's message of friendship, love and harmony to the world.
Shabab Oman II seeks to strengthen ties between Oman and nations worldwide by introducing Omani culture at each stop, showcasing the country's proud maritime history, ancient traditions and modern progress.
It is worth mentioning that the Royal Navy of Oman's Shabab Oman programme for sustainable peace and cultural dialogue has been recognised by the Unesco as one of the best practices for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage - an international achievement resulting from the vessel's dedicated efforts in fostering cross-cultural and civilisational communication. — ONA
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