Cumanana
B.A.P "Unión" y la Fragata Marroquí "Mohamed V"
Arrival of the B.A.P. “Union” to Africa
E - Newsletter of Peruvian Culture for Africa MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
Arrival of the B.A.P. “Union” ARTICLE 1
In 1857, the Frigate Amazonas – the first South American vessel to circumnavigate the globe – sailed along the coast of Africa and arrived at the Cape of Good Hope to stock up on food and coal (Ortiz Sotelo, 1988). Over 160 years later, in January 2024, the historic arrival in North Africa of the Peruvian Navy Sailing School Ship (B.A.P.) "Union", the second largest sailing ship in the world, was recorded.
The visit of the B.A.P. "Union" stands as a significant event, marking the convergence of various historical milestones. The ship stayed in Tanger, Kingdom of Morocco, for five days, from January 26 to 30 of 2024, year that commemorates the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between
In this context, Peru and Morocco deployed multiple displays of cultural and diplomatic exchange based on the relaunch of bilateral ties. In this regard, the Embassy of Peru in Morocco, together with local authorities, managed to organize a charming program. The following is a brief account of this joint work.
A week before the ship's arrival, extensive promotion was conducted, including the showcasing of a video on all city screens inviting the public to visit the vessel. Additionally, an exhibition of photographs titled "Portraits of my Blood" by photographer David Díaz was displayed at the former train station, where participant registration took place.
On Friday, January 26, the B.A.P. "Union", accompanied by the Moroccan Royal Navy frigate "Mohamed V", sailed into the bay of Tanger. The 85 cadets aboard the Peruvian ship stood on the masts and sang the national anthems of Peru and Morocco.
Source: Marina de Guerra del Perú
During the port welcome, Captain José Arce, Captain of the Ship, and the crew were warmly received by various officials, including the Northern Maritime Sector Commander, the Commander of the 5th Naval Base, the delegated Arms Commander of the Tanger Larache district, the Secretary General of the Wali, President and Director General of the port, Port Commander, Director of Operations, and personnel from the Peruvian Embassy in Morocco.
The reception was accompanied by performances from various Moroccan folklore groups and dances, as well as a performance by the Royal Moroccan Navy band. The local authorities also prepared decorated Arab tents (camps), carpets, and offered a Moroccan welcome breakfast.
Afterwards, Peru invited the Moroccan authorities to board the ship and a press conference was held on board, in which Captain Arce and Ambassador Arturo Chipoco, Ambassador of Peru to Morocco, participated. Following this, the local civilian and military authorities from Tanger visited the vessel alongside Frigate Captain Mohammed Anouar Kachkach, liaison officer of the Royal Moroccan Navy.
During the evening, a reception was held aboard the ship, attended by the highest political and military authorities of the Tanger region.
Source: Embajada del Perú en Marruecos
Source: Cancillería del Perú
The Director of the Americas of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccans Residing Abroad, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of civil society, and prominent members of the Peruvian community in Morocco also joined this event. On this occasion, the Ambassador of Peru in Morocco presented Captain José Arce with a commemorative plaque as a testimony of the visit. Regarding this reception, the second article of the Cumanana includes the transcript of the words of the Ambassador of Peru in Morocco, Felíx Arturo Chipoco Cáceda, delivered on this occasion.
The following day, Saturday, January 27, a representation of the ship's team visited the facilities of the Tanger Med port for a guided tour by its executives, during which they were provided with detailed information on the functioning and operation of the region's main cargo port. After returning to the city of Tanger, the crew enjoyed a commemorative lunch in honor of the eighth anniversary of the BAP "Union".
During the rest of their stay in Tanger, the crew of the B.A.P. "Union" participated in a variety of cultural activities, official banquets, and protocol visits with the aim of promoting cultural exchange and strengthening ties between Peru and Morocco. These activities included tours of notable historical and cultural sites in the city. Additionally, an exciting football match was held between members of the training ship and their counterparts from the Royal Navy. Visits were also made to the "Crèche de Tanger" (childcare home) and the Intellectual Education Center for Autistic People.
From January 27 to 29, the ship was open to the public to present exhibitions on Peruvian history and culture in "Casa Perú”, a specially prepared space within the sailing training ship. Thanks to the promotional efforts of the Peruvian Embassy in Morocco and Moroccan authorities, as well as the interest generated by the ship's visit, around nine thousand people attended.
The B.A.P. "Union" concluded its stay in Morocco on January 30, when it set sail from the port of Tanger for the city of Cadiz. As a farewell gesture, the Secretary General of the Tanger province presented some gifts to Captain Arce and offered a traditional Moroccan breakfast, livened up by typical music performed by local groups.
Certainly, the departure of the B.A.P. "Union" marks the end of a memorable experience that leaves a legacy in bilateral relations and, especially, in the memory of those who participated in this cultural and diplomatic exchange. This visit holds a prominent place and recalls the unifying power of the sea and navigation in the promotion of international cooperation and Peruvian-Moroccan friendship.
Words of the Ambassador of Peru to the Kingdom of Morocco, FelIx Arturo Chipoco Cáceda, during the reception aboard the B.A.P. "Union"
Tanger, January 26, 2024
Gentlemen:
Wali of the Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima Region
Mayor of Tanger
Representative of the Inspector General of the Royal Navy Ambassadors
Major Commander of the Northern Marine Sector
Commander of the 5th Naval Base
Colonel Major, Commander of Arms Delegate of Tanger
Larache
Commander BAP "Union"
Port Authorities
Ladies and gentlemen
Friends all:
It is an honor to address you at this special moment, marked by the historic arrival of the sailing training ship BAP "Union" on Moroccan soil, particularly in the beautiful and historic city of Tanger.
This event represents a significant chapter in the history of our relationship with Morocco, and it is also part of the commemorations of the 60th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between Peru and the Kingdom of Morocco.
The visit of the B.A.P. "Union" reflects a concerted effort by Peru, the Navy, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other institutions in my country. Its objectives include, on the one hand, to highlight Peru and to foster closer ties between friendly nations like the Kingdom of Morocco and Peru and their navies; and one the other hand, to provide the Moroccan people – especially those in Tanger – with an opportunity to appreciate and learn more about their history, culture, folklore, and craftsmanship. Indeed, a deeper understanding of each other enhances the bonds, revealing similarities and fostering a sense of kinship between our peoples, which make us better understand our closeness and friendship.
The presence of the BAP "Union" in these waters underscores our commitment to Morocco, demonstrating our aspiration to strengthen and broaden our relations in various areas and it is a tangible testimony of the will to consolidate fraternal and constructive ties with a friendly
It is worth recalling that diplomatic relations between our two countries were established on June 27, 1964. Then, in the Peruvian case, an ambassador concurrent from London was appointed. Since then, a resident embassy in Rabat has continuously represented Peru, reflecting the enduring friendship and connection between Peru and the Kingdom of Morocco.
Over the years, we have laid solid foundations for the strengthening of our ties, sharing a common future vision that corresponds to the fundamental interests of progress and well-being for our peoples.
Both countries are members of the Forum for South America-Arab Countries (ASPA) and the Forum for South America-Africa Cooperation (ASA). Morocco is a member of the African Union, while Peru has been an Observer State since 2005. Furthermore, Morocco was the first African country to join as an observer member of the Pacific Alliance in 2014, and since 2020, Morocco has been an observer member of the Andean Community of Nations. A robust and fruitful parliamentary cooperation has also been developing.
In recent years, bilateral relations have progressed with high-level visits, among which the most notable was the visit made by HM King Mohammed VI in 2004, of which Peru has very fond memories.
Looking ahead, we hope to further deepen our political-diplomatic ties, expand our economic and trade relations, and strengthen South-South cooperation, maximizing the potential and well-being of our countries and peoples.
The training voyage of the sailing ship "Union" is an ambitious project that embraces diversity and international collaboration. This circumnavigation journey includes 21 ports in 15 countries, involving not only the training of cadets from the Naval School of Peru but also welcoming young mariners from Mexico, Panama, Bolivia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Additionally, two young Peruvian diplomats are part of this crew, to whom I extend warm greetings from the Peruvian Diplomatic Service.
This exchange of knowledge and experiences not only enriches our young people but also strengthens the bonds between nations that share a common spirit of cooperation and learning.
In this context, I would like to highlight once again the contribution of the sailing training vessel B.A.P. “Union”, acting as a floating and itinerant embassy, to our foreign policy's objective of highlighting Peru to the world, not only in the naval field but also in cultural, commercial, and diplomatic realms. The voyage, which commenced in June 2023 and concludes in April 2024, will undoubtedly be elaborated on greater detail by the Commander of the sailing training ship.
Allow me to share what it has meant for us to materialize the visit of the BAP "Union." I vividly remember those months when this journey was a project surrounded by uncertainty, filled with high expectations. Its realization not only met our aspirations but also contributed to embellishing the commemoration of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Peru and Morocco. It enhanced Peru's image and furthered our relationship with this brotherly country. As they say here, "Alhamdulillah”, this aspiration was fulfilled, and today we have the B.A.P. "Union" illuminating this beautiful bay.
Our deepest and sincerest gratitude to His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Royal Navy of Morocco, the Wali of the Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima Region, the Mayor of Tanger, the authorities of the Port of Tanger Ville, the authorities of Tanger-Med, and all institutions, authorities, and individuals who collaborated and supported the Peruvian Embassy in making the visit of the sailing training vessel B.A.P. "Union" possible. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
I also take this opportunity to express my appreciation to Commander BAP "Union”, Captain AP José Luis Arce Corzo, Frigate Captain Roberto Nieto, and the entire crew, including the young cadets who aspire to join the Peruvian Navy, for their professionalism in organizing this visit, for their love and commitment to Peru, and for the sacrifice of leaving their homes and families. I am sure that the professionalism and dedication displayed by the crew during this circumnavigation journey reflect the success of this voyage.
Thank you all for joining us tonight. I hope you enjoy this evening, where you will have the opportunity to appreciate some of our traditions, the warmth and friendship of Peru, and, above all, to enjoy this floating gem.
The presence of the sailing training ship BAP "Union" in Morocco is more than a ceremonial event; it is a tangible testimony to the importance we attach to bilateral relations with Morocco. It is a moment to solidify the friendship between our countries, to learn from each other, and to build a future of collaboration and mutual understanding.
Thank you all for your attention, and may this encounter mark the beginning of a new chapter in our bilateral relations. Long live Morocco, long live Peru!
Thank you very much.
