PATTAYA, Thailand – The 83rd Fleet of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy of China arrived at Sattahip Naval Base (Juk Samet) in Chonburi Province on Thursday for a four-day official visit to Thailand, lasting until October 20. The fleet includes the training ship Qi Jiguang (No. 83) and the landing ship Yimeng Shan (No. 988), carrying a total of 1,207 personnel.
China’s official Xinhua news agency reported that Zhang Jianwei, Chinese Ambassador to Thailand, participated in welcoming the fleet. This marks the third visit of the Qi Jiguang to Thailand and the first visit of the Yimeng Shan. During the visit, crew members from both ships will tour the Royal Thai Navy’s HTMS Chakri Naruebet, other naval equipment, and the Naval Academy.
The visit aims to strengthen military relations, foster friendship and cooperation between the Thai and Chinese navies, and celebrate the 50th anniversary of Thailand-China diplomatic relations. It also provides an opportunity for knowledge and training exchange, as the visit is part of the Chinese naval cadet training program. The Royal Thai Navy deployed HTMS Chang, a large multi-purpose landing ship, to participate in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Chinese training ships off the southern coast of Koh Juang, Chonburi.
In addition, the Chinese navy opened the ships for public tours, allowing local residents and tourists to explore the vessels up close. (TNA)
