To strengthen its anti-piracy mission, China is considering setting up a permanent naval base in the Middle East. In a posting on a defense ministry website, Chinese naval official said the move is to "fulfill our international commitments."
The naval official also noted that the base would better support its vessels and would strengthen supply capacity.
A permanent naval base is likely to be based in Gulf of Aden, the pirate infested waters off the coast of Somalia. Chines vessels are currently using dock and re-supply at a French naval base in the Gulf. Recently, China has reportedly paid US$ 4 million to free its coal carrier De Xin Hai and 25 sailors from Somali pirates.
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