Chinese warships make first transit of Straits of Hormuz

TWO Chinese warships have entered the Gulf of Oman transiting the Straits of Hormuz for the first time to call on Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The frigate Maanshan and Supply Ship Qiandaohu, are part of the fourth Chinese Navy Escort Task Group, which just completed its mission in the Gulf of Aden protecting cargo ships against pirates off Somalia, reported Xinhua.

Addressing a welcoming ceremony in Abu Dhabi, Qiu Yanpeng, commander of the task group, said: "Ever since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the UAE, our bilateral ties have grown steadily and both sides favoured each other with valuable support and cooperation on international and regional affairs."

Mr Qiu, also deputy chief of the Chinese Navy's East Sea Fleet, voiced appreciation for the UAE navy's invitation, saying friendly exchanges between the two navies are an important component of bilateral relations.

UAE Rear Admiral Sheikh Saeed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan expressed warm welcome for the Chinese warships, saying the visit is of great historical significance.

The two warships will leave Abu Dhabi and return home today, Monday, Xinhua reported.

Separately, Zhang Deshun, former deputy chief of staff of the PLA Navy, stated that China harbours no ambitions to build military bases overseas, reported China Economic review, citing state media.

Although the retired officer indicated that a Chinese naval force would take a greater role in UN-led anti-terrorism and anti-piracy missions, he also said: "We have no agenda to set up military establishments, or threaten establishments of other nations overseas."

Other officials have stated China's navy is capable of operating overseas missions without the need to establish foreign military bases.

The statements came after speculation that China would establish foreign military bases to help defend its international shipping lines from pirates off the Somali coast. China has engaged in overseas operations since December 2008, escorting 1,677 Chinese and foreign merchant ships.
 

Source: Sched Net