From 2 to 5 August last, two units of the "Japan Training Squadron", the frigates "JS" stopped at the Angioino pier of the Port of Naples Kashima" and “JS Shimakaze", belonging to the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). The visit is aimed at training abroad and promoting friendship and cooperation between Japan and Italy.
In this context, on the morning of August 2, the extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassador to Italy Satoshi Suzuki, accompanied by a delegation composed of RADM Takahiro Nishiyama, head of the Japan Training Squadron, Capt Hiroaki Tanaka, CSM of the JTS, as well as Capt Kichiro Sakai and CDR Go Kaiiyama, commander of the Kashima and Shimakaze respectively, visited the logistics command of the Navy of Naples, received by the command's chief of staff, inspector admiral Pierpaolo Budri, representing the comlog, engaged in off-site activities. In the evening of the same day, a delegation made up of officers from the logistics command went on board the two ships docked at the dock of the Molo Angioino of the Neapolitan port where they were offered refreshments, according to Japanese gastronomic tradition and culture.
On Saturday 3 August, a representation of the two Japanese ships led by RADM Nishiyama, laid a wreath of flowers at the stele commemorating the Italian sailors who perished during the last world war, located in front of the naval officers' club in Naples. A delegation from the logistics command led by Admiral Budri also participated in the short but significant ceremony, carried out according to Japanese custom. Finally, in the evening, on the terrace of the officers' club, a sober reception was held in honor of the guests who were able to appreciate the particular panorama as well as admire their two ships set in the stupendous scenery of the port of Naples with the silhouette of Vesuvius in the background .
On the morning of Monday 5 August, the two ships left the port of Naples to continue their training tour in the Mediterranean.
