Ex-president of Timor-Leste hails visit of Chinese naval flotilla

Former president of Timor-Leste Xanana Gusmao said on Sunday that a Chinese naval task force's visit displays friendship and peace.

Gusmao toured on board the DDG-152 Jinan destroyer in Dili, saying, "It is a great pleasure to welcome China's naval ships in Timor-Leste."

After being briefed by the staff of the Chinese warship, the 69-year-old former president said he is impressed by Chinese navy's capacity.

"I believe that China's navy sailing around the world is not to show force but to strengthen the friendship between countries and peoples."

China's ambassador to Timor-Leste Liu Hongyang joined Gusmao in the tour.

The destroyer and two other Chinese naval ships arrived in the southeast Asian country on Saturday. Endit