Chinese naval fleet calls at Myanmar port

Yangon May 18 (IANS) A Chinese naval fleet comprising three warships called at a port in Myanmar s Yangon city on Thursday officials said.

On its voyage from Malaysia s Penang the Chinese People s Liberation Army (PLA) navy fleet will stay for four days at the Myanmar International Terminals Thilawa (MITT) port for the friendly call Xinhua news agency reported.

Welcoming the Chinese naval fleet were Charge d Affaires of the Chinese Embassy Chen Chen and Chief of Myanmar naval dockyard headquarters Admiral Myint Oo and other naval officials entrepreneurs and students.

Commander of the Chinese naval fleet Shen Hao told the media that the Myanmar visit is to enhance exchange mutual trust and traditional friendship between navies of the two countries.

During the call Myanmar military leaders will visit the fleet.

Navies of the two countries will also play friendly football match during the visit.

Last September another Chinese naval fleet of the 23rd Escort Task Group had called at the Myanmar port.

--IANS
ksk/vt