A 30-member foot formation from the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy took part in a military parade celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Seychelles' independence on Sunday. The event, which took place at the Unity Stadium in Victoria, capital of the African island nation, marked China's debut at a military parade in the Seychelles and a milestone for bilateral military relations.
The 30 servicemen were selected from the visiting destroyer Tangshan. The ship, part of the 48th Chinese PLA Naval Escort Taskforce, arrived in the Seychelles on Friday for a five-day friendly visit at the invitation of the Seychelles government. As the first foreign formation to be inspected, the Chinese servicemen marched past the reviewing stand in gallant array with high morale as well as firm and forceful steps, manifesting impeccable discipline of the PLA Navy.
"We are here to present the good image of Chinese soldiers on an international stage. Every moment of bravery against wind and waves was for the best performance today. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the Seychelles. We have not only witnessed the profound friendship between our two countries, but also created precious memories that belong to us, the PLA Navy," said Jiang Shengyi, an officer of the 48th Chinese PLA Naval Escort Taskforce.
During the five-day visit, the escort taskforce are conducting professional exchanges, deck receptions, and other activities, aiming to contribute to building an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era.
Chinese naval unit takes part in Seychelles' 50th Independence Day parade
