LOC12:27
09:27 GMT
MUSCAT, April 30 (KUNA) -- "Shabab Oman I" Royal Navy of Oman vessel kicked off here on Sunday to set off for Europe, the six-month journey to take part in the tall ships races in the Baltic Sea.
The journey aims to extend bridges of friendship and peace among various nations around the world and promoting for the Sultanate's tourism and culture, as well as training youth on tall ships sailing, polishing their skills and promoting spirit of adventure and competition among them.
Commanding Officer of the RNOV "Shabab Oman II", Lt. Commander Ali bin Mohammed Al-Hosani, said during the press meeting that the vessel comes to replace "Shabab Oman I" which came to achieve a vision of Sultan Qaboos bin Saeed on the importance of cultural and civilized communication between the Sultanate and various countries around the world.
During the visual presentation, Al-Hosani reviewed the voyages made by "Shabab Oman I" to Asia, Europe and North America, as well as winning the International Friendship Cup for 10 times, which is one of the most prestigious tall ship awards in the world.
The vessel enjoys several features as its lines combine traditions of ancient tall ships and Omani genuine classic designs. It also possesses latest nautical technologies, he said.
Naming "Shabab Oman II", the vessel came during an official ceremony held in the Netherlands in May 2014 to be an official ambassador of the Sultanate and to replace its predecessor "Shabab Oman I". (end)
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