Interpreting at Portmouth during Chinese Navy's visit 2007

A historical moment for the Chinese Navy to make this trip to Europe in 2007. I was lucky enough to be selected as the interpreter to help guide Shenzhen into her berth in Portmouth during her European visit in 2007. I had to be up at 5am and ready to board the pilot boat by 6am. We then sailed to the open sea to welcome the Shenzhen and Fengcang to Britain. I had to jump on to the stairs by the side of the ship while in motion. What a thrill! In the beautiful morning of the rising sun we sailed into the Solent and docked at Portsmout. En route a gun solute was sounded at the entrance of the harbour while at Southsea the crowds were by the shore to welcome the ships into her bosom. The Chinese Ambassador Mme Fu Ying gave a welcome speech and the Royal Naval Base Commander at Portmouth made the fleet very welcome. Friendship has been once again been extended to further ashore. This is the power of communication and clutural exchange. Through which we can avoid misunderstanding and diffuse any distrust and eliminate wars