The city of Kobe has decided not to ask an Italian navy vessel to submit a document stating that it is not carrying nuclear weapons or nuclear materials, as required by a city ordinance, before it docks in the port Monday, city officials said Saturday.
The 52.9-ton Orsa Maggiore is an unarmed training vessel and therefore not subject to the city's nonnuclear regulations, the officials said, adding that the waiver does not mean the city has abandoned the requirement.
The Orsa Maggiore is expected to remain at the port until April 10 for refueling and to give its crew some shore leave. The vessel has been taking part in various events in Tokyo and other cities.
Kobe has refused to allow foreign ships to make port calls unless they submit a document stating that they are not carrying nuclear weapons or materials.