China's frigate Xuchang has arrived in Lagos Port, Nigeria for a multilateral joint drill.
Xuchang is one of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy vessels currently carrying out the 46th escort mission in the Gulf of Aden and the waters off Somalia.
The frigate was welcomed by staff members of Chinese Embassy to Nigeria, representatives of local Chinese institutions and overseas Chinese, as well as military delegates of Nigeria.
"Seeing our motherland's warship and national flag makes me feel like home. And boarding the Xuchang ship gives me a strong sense of security and reassurance," an overseas Chinese said.
As an invited vessel, Xuchang has held a series of cultural exchange activities upon arrival at Lagos Port, including an open day event, deck reception, and sports games.
The vessel is also scheduled to participate whole-process maritime meetings and military drills at sea.
"We hope to strengthen communication and exchange with the naval forces of the participating countries and deepen understanding with the naval forces of the relevant nations by taking part in the multinational joint exercise in Nigeria. It's expected that we can not only promote friendship but also showcase the confidence and openness of the PLA as well as our willingness to conduct cooperation," said Zhang Ju from frigate Xuchang.
Focusing on counter-piracy and counter-oil theft, the drill includes subjects such as vessel maneuvering, joint patrol and communications drill.
China's frigate Xuchang arrives in Nigeria for multilateral joint drill
