The "Linyi", "Weifang" and "Weishanh" are berthed in Split, carrying 712 sailors. They were welcomed by 247 Chinese who temporarily live in Croatia and neighbouring countries.
The boats were welcomed by Croatian Navy commander Commodore Predrag Stipanovic along with Chinese Ambassador Ying Deng and China's Military Attache to Croatia, Brigadier Chunlu Jing.
Commodore Stipanovic said that this was a very significant event for the Croatian Navy and that he was pleased to host the Chinese Navy. He said that a wealthy programme lay ahead, including the exchange of experiences, sporting events and touring cultural sites. "I think that their stay in our town will be exceptionally good. We are preparing to participate in the Triton humanitarian operation," a concerted effort to manage migration in the central Mediterranean, Stipanovic said.
Ambassador Ying said that this was very significant not just because of the exchange of experience between the two armies but also for relations between the two countries. She said that this year marked the tenth anniversary of comprehensive partnership between China and Croatia, making this visit to Split very important.
This fleet is very significant, not only because of the recently completed peace mission in the Gulf of Aden but also because of the evacuation of Chinese emigrants in Yemen, and it also protected the sea in Somalia. During the visit to Split, the Chinese Navy will, together with Croatia's Navy, conduct a series of exchanges and I believe that this will improve the mutual friendship between the two armies. I believe that your beautiful Croatia will leave a wonderful impression, she said.
The Chinese fleet will remain in Split until June 5 and will be open to the public on Tuesday and Wednesday from 9am till 7pm.