Iran, Oman to stage joint rescue drills

Iran and Oman will stage joint rescue and relief naval drills in the east of the Strait of Hormuz in the Persian Gulf, an official said on Sunday.

The drills, which will start in the coming days, is to enhance the preparedness of both countries for rescue and relief operations for trade vessels and oil tankers passing through the strategic the Strait of Hormuz, said Iran's navy commander, reported Xinhua.

Both countries discussed naval cooperation, exchanging military instructors and cadets, technical cooperation on the repair, maintenance and overhaul of naval equipment, and reciprocal visits by the two countries' fleets.

Iran and Oman have so far held several naval relief and rescue drills to enhance readiness for providing relief services and rescue operations, as well as improving the level of regional cooperation and exchanging experience.