The Chinese Navy's 22nd Escort Task Group (ETG) arrived in Cape Town on May 16, its first port of call during its port vision mission. 

The frigate Daqing, destroyer Qingdao  and supply ship Taihu  were welcomed at the Simon's Town naval base by the South African Navy (SAN) led by Flag Officer Fleet Rear Admiral Bubele Mhlana. The nearly 400 cheering spectators also included Kang Yong, Consul General of the Chinese Consulateat Cape Town, and representatives from Chinese enterprises and the local Chinese community.  

After the ships hoisted the national flags of both China and South Africa, the guests visited DDG Qingdao. 

During the four-day visit, the ETG commanded by Rear Admiral Chen Qiangnan will meet the SAN and other South African officials and conduct a series of friendly exchanges with the SAN, including a football match. 

The ETG will also conduct a joint exercise with the SAN. 

This is the fourth time Chinese Navy ships are visiting South Africa. Cape Town, where the South African parliament is located, is the second largest city in the country and an important stop on international shipping routes.  

(ChinAfrica  reporting from South Africa)