.: The US Navy’s Expeditionary Sea Base USS Hershel “Woody” Williams arrived at the Table Bay Harbour

Thursday, March 04, 2021

The US Navy’s Expeditionary Sea Base USS Hershel “Woody” Williams arrived at the Table Bay Harbour

The US Navy’s Expeditionary Sea Base USS Hershel “Woody” Williams (ESB 4) arrived at the Table Bay Harbour on Saturday for a planned port visit.

The visit builds on U.S. maritime partnerships with African nations and improves maritime safety and security in the region.

“The visit is yet another indication of the deep abiding partnership between South Africa and the United States. This is a partnership that builds shared prosperity, saves lives and creates security both in South Africa and the US and around the African continent.’’ says acting U.S Consul general in Cape Town, Will Stevens.

‘’Ships like the USS Hershel Williams are the backbone of America's commitment to contributing not just to our own security, but to ensure that the world's oceans remain free and open,” added Stevens.

Stevens said the US was eager to partner with South Africa and like-minded partners in the African region and to ensure that the region could be free from piracy, illegal fishing, terrorism and transactional threats. We must never take for granted the security of our seas.

‘’With over 90% of the global trade travelling the world's oceans, seaborne trade is the lifeblood of global trade. South Africa, as the Western gateway to the Indian Ocean, and an important continental exporter, plays a crucial role in ensuring safe and secure maritime access to this region.’’

The marine recently celebrated the launch of Trade and Investment Promotion Partnership between the U.S and the Western Cape.

“I am confident that we will see increases to the already R15 billion in annual bilateral trade between the US and the Western Cape. Trade is only possible because of this secure port and the safe and secure sea lands,” said Stevens.

PICTURE: Logo of the USS Hershel “Woody” Williams (ESB 4)