Strengthening relationship with Indonesian neighbours
HMAS Sydney recently arrived in Bali for a port visit after travelling about 22,000 nautical miles during the ship’s regional presence deployment.
Commander of Denpasar Naval Base Kolonel Laut (P) Ary Mahayasa and staff officially welcomed Sydney and her crew on their arrival at the Port of Benoa.
Members of Sydney’s crew were treated to a demonstration of traditional music and dance on the wharf.
CO Sydney CMDR Hayden Jenkins and Kolonel Mahayasa exchanged gifts, including a ship’s hat and traditional Balinese headdress.
Kolonel Mahayasa said he looked forward to working closely together during the visit.
CMDR Jenkins said Bali was a popular port visit for RAN crews, which demonstrated the strong and enduring defence relationship between Australia and Indonesia.
“As close maritime neighbours, both nations share a commitment to regional security, stability and prosperity; underpinned by regular defence engagement, naval cooperation, professional exchanges and coordinated maritime activities,” CMDR Jenkins said.
“This visit, from September 27 to 30, provides an opportunity to strengthen navy-to-navy relationships with the Indonesian Navy, reinforce the Australia-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and demonstrate Australia's commitment to engaging with regional partners in support of a secure, stable and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
“Through port visits such as this, Sydney contributes to building trust, enhancing mutual understanding and fostering the professional relationships that underpin practical defence cooperation between our two countries.”
Sydney sailed from FBE on June 9 and participated in Exercises Rim of the Pacific and Pacific Dragon, both conducted in the waters off Hawaii from June to August.
Sydney then transited the Pacific Ocean to Guam for training activities and engagements with allies and partners during Exercises Pacific Vanguard and Nichi-Gou Trident, before transiting the South China Sea en route to Bali.
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