Vancouver BC Canada - On October 1st (local time), a welcome ceremony for the 2024 Naval Cruise Training Squadron took place at the Esquimalt Canadian Naval Base in the city of Victoria. The event was attended by Consul General Jongho Kyun from the Republic of Korea's Consulate General in Vancouver, Commander Christopher Robinson of the Canadian Pacific Fleet, Victoria City Councilor Susan Kim, and representatives from the Korean community.
In his welcome speech, Consul General Kyun emphasized that the Korea-Canada relationship has developed into a comprehensive strategic partnership, initiated by Canada's participation in the Korean War. He also urged the 79th class of naval cadets, soon to be commissioned, to embrace the vision of an ocean-going navy and to strive for national defense and strengthening cooperation with key allied countries.
Despite the chilly and cloudy weather, approximately 100 Korean residents attended the welcome ceremony, presenting bouquets to the cruise training squadron and warmly welcoming the naval officers and cadets. This event reaffirmed the friendly relations between Korea and Canada and served as a meaningful occasion to encourage the next generation of naval talent.
