Mayor salutes defense forces

COMMANDERS of the SA and French Navy received a warm welcome from City of uMhlathuze Mayor Mduduzi Mhlongo on Tuesday, arriving at the Civic Centre to pay their traditional courtesy call.

Commanding Officers of both defence forces, with their fleets currently preparing for the 2015 Exercise Oxide offshore of Richards Bay, briefed the mayor and other city leaders on the extensive simulation test next week to ensure potential search and rescue missions in the South Indian Ocean run as efficiently as possible.

‘South Africa and France share common objectives in combating crimes in the Indian Ocean and based on this, we have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to guard it,’ said Captain Musawenkozi Nkomonde.

‘To prepare for a worst case scenario, our naval forces will work together on a search and rescue operation in response to a simulated disaster.’

Mayor Mhlongo saluted the men for their dedication to save those stranded at sea and keep maritime criminal activities at bay.

‘As a city, we welcome you and assure you that you picked the right place for this exercise.

‘It will be an eye-opener since we, as citizens, often take lightly the task of running and protecting a country.

‘We do not always realise that issues like piracy are also a part of the South African story.

‘SA belongs to everyone who lives in it and the safety of this country is necessary for all to prosper.

‘We cannot keep it safe without your technical expertise in this highly specialised field.’

French Air Force Colonel and Defence Attaché Jean-Marie Monot said the French navy’s partnership with SA is a ‘win-win relationship’.

‘South Africa is a key leader in southern Africa and we share the same threats of piracy in the Indian Ocean.

‘It is especially constructive that this will not only be a navy-to-navy exercise, but also involve other Special Forces and agencies that will prove more efficient.

‘It is always a pleasure to come to Richards Bay.

‘This City becomes more and more attractive to visit.’