U.S. missile destroyer calls on Russian port of Vladivostok

VLADIVOSTOK, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. guided missile destroyer Lassen arrived in Vladivostok Tuesday to take part in a WWII Victory Day parade.

The crew was welcomed by representatives of Russia's Pacific Fleet command and U.S. consulate-general in Vladivostok.

The U.S. sailors will join Victory Day events on Thursday, which marks 68 years since Nazi Germany's surrender to the Soviet Union.

The visit is also aimed at further strengthening of friendship and naval cooperation between the navies of Russia and the United States.

The crew of Lassen will also meet with Russian naval counterparts and Vladivostok city mayor, lay wreaths at the Eternal Flame of the PF Combat Glory memorial complex and make a sightseeing tour.

For their part, Lassen sailors will open the warship for Vladivostok residents and guests.

The 154-meter-long Lassen was commissioned in April 2001.

The American seamen will participate in the naval review on the Victory Day along with the crew of French frigate Vendemiaire, who arrived here Monday.

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