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171128-N-ZP972-005 PORT OF AGADIR (Nov. 28, 2017) – Sailors aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72) heave mooring line as the ship arrives in Agadir, Morocco, for a scheduled port visit Nov. 28, 2017. Vella Gulf is on a routine deployment to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations to conduct maritime security operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe. (U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Elizabeth Moon/Released)

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AGADIR, Morocco - The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72) arrived in Agadir, Morocco, Nov. 28, 2017, for a scheduled port visit.

The visit serves to enhance U.S.-Morocco relations as the two nations work together to strengthen regional security and stability.

The ship’s presence in the North Atlantic is a demonstration of our continued commitment to regional security.

"Our crew is really excited for our visit to Morocco; most Sailors joined the Navy to see the world and very few of them have ever been to Agadir or anywhere else in Africa,” said Capt. Rob Thompson, commanding officer of Vella Gulf. “There is a longstanding history of friendship and cooperation between our two countries and we look forward to building on that relationship during our time here.”

Events planned for the visit include tours of the ship for locals, and an official dinner including Vella Gulf Sailors, the U.S. Embassy personnel and distinguished Moroccan guests.

Vella Gulf, homeported in Norfolk, is conducting maritime operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests.

U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.