In a display of maritime diplomacy, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy’s (PLAN) 45th naval escort task force has anchored in Maputo, Mozambique, for a five-day goodwill visit. This visit comes on the heels of their recent stop in Tanzania, signaling China’s commitment to fostering relationships with African nations.
The task force, consisting of the Type 052D destroyer Urumqi, the Type 054A frigate Linyi, and the Type 903A replenishment ship Dongpinghu, was welcomed by over 200 individuals. This group included Mozambican military representatives, Chinese Embassy staff, and members of the Chinese community in Mozambique.
During their stay, the 45th escort fleet is set to engage in various exchange activities, including a deck reception, as reported by the PLAN. These activities are part of a broader diplomatic initiative by China to expand its influence and strengthen ties within the region.
Previously, the task force visited Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, from March 23 to 27. The visit included a courtesy call to Major General Mwasaika, Commander of the Tanzania Navy, and homage paid at the cemetery of Chinese experts who historically assisted Tanzania.
Meanwhile, the PLAN’s 46th escort task force is currently stationed in the Gulf of Aden, having departed from China on February 21. This task force includes the Type 052D guided missile destroyer Jiaozuo, the Type 054A missile frigate Xuchang, and the Type 903A replenishment vessel Honghu, manned by over 700 crew members, special forces personnel, and equipped with two helicopters.
Zhang Junshe, a senior Chinese military expert, clarified that the PLA Navy’s escort missions are independent of the regional tensions, such as Houthi attacks on shipping or major power rivalries.
By the end of 2023, the PLA Navy had completed over 1,600 escort missions in the Gulf of Aden and off the coast of Somalia, safeguarding more than 7,200 vessels, with over half being foreign ships, as per China Central Television.
In a similar vein, the 43rd Chinese naval escort task force visited Cape Town in July 2023, following its mission in the Gulf of Aden and Somali waters. This visit, led by the destroyer Nanning, was part of China’s ongoing efforts to enhance its diplomatic presence and influence in Africa.
The task force’s journey along the West coast of Africa included diplomatic stops in countries such as the Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Gabon, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. These visits have been pivotal in demonstrating China’s dedication to building and maintaining strong bilateral relationships, as highlighted by the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Chi Chun, during the task force’s visit to Nigeria on July 3.
The strategic movements of the PLAN’s naval task forces underscore China’s multifaceted approach to diplomacy, combining military presence with goodwill gestures to reinforce its global standing and cooperative ties with nations across Africa.