Prince Andrew in Vietnam

Prince Andrew in Vietnam

HANOI (DPA): Britain's Prince Andrew arrived in Vietnam on Tuesday for a five-day visit aimed at showcasing British talents in everything from defense technology to Beatles' style rock and roll.

The visit by the duke of York, and second son of Queen Elizabeth II, is aimed at boosting economic ties and nudging along major contracts being bid by British firms, officials said.

The visit by Prince Andrew, a serving naval officer, coincides with a port call by a British naval frigate, the HMS Boxer, which will provide the venue for a defense exhibition.

Shortly after his morning arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, Prince Andrew met the city mayor, People's Committee Chairman Vo Viet Thanh. In the afternoon he was scheduled to open a defense exhibition aboard the Broadsword Class frigate.