Xi Jinping Reviews International Fleet: China holds historic naval parade on PLA Navy's 70th anniversary

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02:32

A grand naval parade has concluded in waters off east China's port city of Qingdao. The parade, reviewed by President and Central Military Commission Chairman Xi Jinping, is part of the multinational naval events marking the 70th anniversary of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy. It's the 2nd such review in 10 years. CGTN correspondent Han Bin was on the observation ship and filed this report.

Birthday party, Navy style! And China's navy is showing how far it's come in its 70 years.

The secrets of its nuclear submarines, the debut of the latest 10,000-ton type 055 class destroyer, the high-flying presentation of the navy's own air force, as well as the battle group of China's first aircraft carrier.

32 Chinese warships sail past in different groups, while 39 aircraft fly over in various echelons. It's a display of the navy's priorities in transformation - joint operations among different branches and building a combat-ready blue-water force.

President Xi Jinping is on board one of China's Type 052D class guided missile destroyers to review the parade.

There are also 18 foreign vessels from 13 countries. Although their numbers aren't high, and types aren't new, they're testament to China's improved relations with neighboring navies.

And though many major maritime powers, including the United States, didn't send any ships, their representatives are here to observe.

China hopes the Qingdao multi-national activities, including this fleet review, can strengthen cooperation on maritime issues.

HAN BIN OFF THE COAST OF QINGDAO "The navy's growing confidence in its crucial progress in becoming a maritime power, has brought about this unprecedented transparency. The world is closely watching the role a stronger PLA Navy will play in maritime security in a shared future. Han Bin, CGTN, off the coast of Qingdao."