Sri Lanka Navy, in accordance with naval traditions, ceremonially welcomed China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ship Qi Jiguang arrived at the port of Colombo on a goodwill visit today (10th November).
A host of officials from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sri Lanka and Chinese nationals living in Sri Lanka were present at the harbor premises to welcome the ship.
Late, the Task Commander and Director Dalian Naval Academy, Rear Admiral Yan Zheng Ming and Commanding Officer, Captain Ye Kaihna, of the PLAN Qi Jiguang called on Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Sirimevan Ranasinghe at the Naval Headquarters in Colombo.
The PLA Navy officers extended their best wishes to the Commander of the Navy and discussed several matters of bilateral importance between the two parties.
Chinese Navy’s new training ship, carrying 549 naval officers and soldiers, started a 76-day training voyage from China in September visiting Portugal, Italy, Sri Lanka and Thailand.
The vessel is 163.5 m in length and 22.2 m in width and has a displacement of 10,907 tons.
During their five-day official visit, the crew members of Qi Ji Guang are scheduled to participate in a number of training exercises and sporting events organized by the Sri Lanka Navy with a view to share professional expertise and strengthen friendship.
On completion of tour events, the Chinese ship is expected to depart from Colombo harbor on 14th of this month.
