BAP Union, currently the world’s second largest naval training vessel, scored several diplomatic distinctions in its maiden visit to Singapore. The stop over was the only made in Southeast Asia during its 10-month trip round the world. Peruvian Ambassador to Singapore H.E. Carlos Vasquez, highlighted some of the diplomatic as well as some of personal facets related to the visit that coincided with the approaching end of his tenure here
THE BAP Union sailed in to Changi Naval Base on 9th October 2023 with her crew ‘manning the yards’. This is a naval tradition where the crew stands on the sails’ yards with the masts reaching over 50 metres (170 ft) high to render honours to Singapore. According to the Peruvian Ambassador to Singapore, H.E. Carlos Vasquez, the visit to Singapore – the sole Southeast Asia stop in its global circumnavigation highlights the “deepening relations between our two nations which go beyond diplomacy and trade.” He said the same goes to the BAP Union which serves as a “sailing embassy” and it is about cultural diplomacy, education and training as well as strengthening of ties.
BAP Union Captain Jose Luis Arce Corzo welcomed aboard guests who included naval officers from Singapore’s Navy headed by Col Francis Goh and invited guests who included Peruvian citizens living in Singapore. They had earlier welcomed the ship and its over 200 crew accompanied by an orchestra and a Singapore Lion Dance troupe!
Ambassador Valquez said visitors to the ship will find a unique exhibition room titled Casa Peru that reflected Peruvian culture and maritime tradition. The exhibition features the essence of the Peruvian nation that includes its music, arts and military traditions. The ship also has an education function that serves as a ‘hands on’ training academy for future naval Peruvian officers. In Singapore the crew’s education includes more than just maritime training as the crew engages in activities that deepen their understanding of the local culture and history. The Ambassador said this is a valuable opportunity to learn from the various communities in Singapore. Finally, the Ambassador said the BAP Union’s visit also has a profound connection to international trade. He said, “The cornerstones of Peruvian and Singaporean economies as both of our nations are members of the CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership) and we are also eagerly anticipating the implementation of the free trade agreement between Singapore and the Pacific Alliance and we have also expressed our interest in the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA). The Ambassador said that all these linkages, “Underscore our shared vision for a world that thrives on open trade. The visit by the BAP Union shows the indispensable role maritime rules play in global commerce. Ensuring the security and safety of these maritime pathways is crucial.”
“On a personal note as I near completing my tenure in Singapore one day after the ship departs, I think the visit of the BAP Union encapsulates the multi-facet relationship between our two nations. It is a relationship that we hope to continue nurturing built on shared values and mutual respect and all the endless possibilities that come from international cooperation,” said Ambassador Vasquez
Sail Note: The BAP Union arrived in Singapore – its sixth port of call – after 115 days of intensive sailing arriving on 13th Oct 2023. It leaves Singapore on 13th October 2023.
