HMS Richmond Drops Anchor in Balboa, Panama

Royal Navy warship HMS Richmond has paid a visit to port of Balboa, Panama on her way back from a seven month deployment to Atlantic Patrol Tasking (South) via the Pacific Ocean.

The visit will enable the ship to replenish, before she heads out to transit the Panama Canal, which celebrates its 100th birthday this year.

What is more, the ship hosted official receptions and welcomed aboard numerous dignitaries such as the Minister of Security for Panama, José Raúl Mulino, Chief of the Security Council of Panama, Alejandro Garuz, Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Panama, Dr Ian Collard and representation from the National Crime Agency.

Commander Rob Pedre, Richmond’s Commanding Officer, said: “It was a privilege to host the Security Minister and I was delighted to welcome a broad cross section of the Panamanian Government onboard.

This visit has provided an excellent opportunity to further invigorate our strong relationship with Panama.”

The Portsmouth based warship sailed on August 5, 2013 for a routine seven-month Atlantic Patrol Tasking, which saw Richmond undertake maritime security operations, including counter narcotics and anti piracy patrols, as well as partnering up with a number of other navies to further strengthen mutual ties.
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Naval Today Staff, January 21, 2014; Image: Royal Navy