MOSCOW, November 9. /TASS/. The Russian Navy’s Baltic Fleet training ship Perekop has carried out joint maneuvers with vessels of the Nigerian Navy and docked at the port of Cotonou in the Republic of Benin, the fleet’s press service reported.

"The Baltic Fleet training ship Perekop is continuing its long-distance navigation voyage and has arrived at the port of Cotonou in the Republic of Benin. Prior to its arrival in Benin, the Perekop’s crew conducted joint maneuvers with the Nigerian Navy, following the ship’s departure from the port of Lagos," the press service said.

It added that the at-sea exercise included joint ship maneuvering, involving the Nigerian Navy patrol vessel Deep Blue Abuja and the AW-139 shipborne helicopter of the Nigerian Navy. During the joint exercise, the sailors shared experience in ensuring navigation safety and coordinating their actions.

The fleet also reported that after the joint drills, the training ship headed toward the next African country on its planned itinerary. A welcoming ceremony for the training ship was held at the port of Cotonou, attended by Russia’s Charge d’Affaires ad interim in Benin Andrey Pumpolev. A series of protocol, cultural, and sporting events are scheduled to be held during the Perekop’s stay in the port of Cotonou.