The Governor General of Papua New Guinea (PNG) was at the shore front this morning in Port Moresby city for the ceremonial Naval Review of the fleet that has come to the country to assist and participate in the 50^th Independence Anniversary celebrations. Standing at the balcony at the APEC Haus, flanked by the Commander Defence Force (CDF) Rear Admiral Philip Polewara, Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae reviewed eight (8) ships that past by close to the shores are Ela Beach, each accorded with a gun salute provide by the Australian and PNG artillery teams. The Purpose of the Fleet Review is both military and diplomatic. It demonstrates the readiness and strength; it fosters good will and cooperation between nations and public relations to build civilian awareness and pride in the navy. The tradition dates far back to the Middle Ages where Kings and rulers would inspect the ships before embarking going for battle. In modern times, the fleet reviews are multinational with invited foreign navies participating. The ships that were reviewed this morning are.

• HMPNGS Ted Diro (PNG)
• HMPNGS Rochus Lokinap (PNG)
• HMPGS Gilbert Toropo (PNG)
• HMAS Choules (Australia)
• HMAS Childers (Australia)
• FNS Auguste Benebig (France)
• VOEA Ngahau Koula (Kingdom of Tonga)
• INS Kadmat (India)

The Naval Review is part of the Military Week celebrations. This afternoon will be the Naval Welcome to Port Moresby March which should commence at 1PM. Meanwhile, in the afternoon saw the personnel from the navies participating, took part in the Naval Welcome March which started from the Basilisk Naval base and ending at the APEC Haus. Tomorrow will see the Consolidated Key Leadership Engagement in the morning and followed later in the evening with PNG Defence Force Military Tattoo performance at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium. The event is open to the public.