Research Vessel "Xiangyanghong 01" Starts Its Research Trip to Indian Ocean in 2019

At 10:00 on February 15, "Xiangyanghong 01", an oceanographic research vessel owned by the First Institute of Oceanography of the Ministry of Natural Resources (FIO, MNR), departed from the Port of Qingdao to perform its maritime research mission in the India Ocean in 2019. During 120-day expedition, Xiangyanghong 01 will cover around 15,000 sea miles in its two route segments. Before the vessel set sail, FIO Director Li Tiegang and Deputy Director Wei Zexun, accompanied by Li Anhu, Head of Administration Office, Xu Xingyong, Head of Division of Science and Technology, Yang Yafeng, Head of Division of International Cooperation, Liu Lejun, Deputy Head of Marine Engineering Environment & Geomatic Center and staff of the Center of Vessel Management, headed for the Port of Qingdao. After being informed of the preparation for departure to sea, Director Li Tiegang hosted a mobilization meeting on the ship. At the meeting, related department leaders put forward valuable suggestions on ship safety and foreign affairs to the expedition team, and also presented their requirements. Deputy Director Wei Zexun read out the Party committee's approval for the establishment of a temporary Party branch for the India Ocean expedition. On behalf of the leadership, Director Li Tiegang affirmed the performance of "Xiangyanghong 01" in the past year, and extended his heartfelt thanks to the expedition team, and his cordial greetings to all members at the occasion of Chinese New Year. In addition, he gave important indications for this research mission. Once again, Direct Li Tiegang emphasized the importance of vessel's safety during the voyage and maritime research, and required all departments to strictly abide by the operation specification and carry out maritime research according to the set plan. He urged the expedition team to observe discipline for foreign affairs, and secure materials replenishment at port and personnel shift under the organization of the temporary Party branch. He also encouraged the expedition team to proactively launch cultural activities, increasing team cohesiveness and securing a successful trip. At last, Director Li Tiegang underlined that, "Xiangyanghong 01" would usher in many expedition missions in 2019. As members of FIO, we all should strive together to do well in ship operation and maintenance. We should, hand in hand, build "Xiangyanghong 01" into a world-class maritime research vessel, a contributor to the maritime community of China, and a maritime research platform supporting China to become a sea power.