Chinese bulk carrier "De Xin Hai", which was rescued from pirates early Monday, is heading home under the protection of China's naval escort, a Chinese official said Tuesday.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Jiang Yu said at a regular news briefing that the vessel and crew were expected home at an early date.

"De Xin Hai", which belongs to Qingdao Ocean Shipping Co., Ltd, was carrying about 76,000 tonnes of coal from South Africa to India when it was hijacked in the Indian Ocean, 350 nautical miles northeast of the Seychelles and 700 nautical miles off the east coast of Somalia on October 19.

After the incident, the Chinese government ordered a rescue mission while ensuring the safety of the ship and the crew members.

The vessel and 25 Chinese crew members aboard were successfully rescued at 3:00 AM on December 28, according to Chinese Marine Search and Rescue Center.

Jiang said the shipping company would make appropriate arrangements for their return, depending on their physical conditions.

The government attached great importance to protecting Chinese abroad, Jiang said. It would continue its naval escort in accordance with international law and United Nations resolutions.

She said China was willing to work with the international community to ensure security of international shipping channels.

(Xinhua News Agency December 30, 2009)