Chinese Naval Taskforce Makes Technical Stop in Casablanca

CASABLANCA, Morocco, July 11 — On July 10, the guided-missile destroyer Jiaozuo and the comprehensive supply ship Honghu, part of the 46th Chinese naval escort taskforce, arrived in Casablanca, Morocco, for a five-day replenishment and rest stop.

At around 8:00 a.m. local time, the Jiaozuo and Honghu, adorned with the national flags of China and Morocco, smoothly docked at Port Casablanca. Over 300 people, including Moroccan military representatives, local residents, staff from the Chinese Embassy in Morocco, and representatives of Chinese-funded institutions and overseas Chinese, gathered to welcome the taskforce. Following the ceremony, the welcoming crowd boarded the ships in groups for visits.

During the port call, the two ships will primarily replenish fuel, potable water, and food supplies. They will also host ship open day and deck reception activities. The navies of China and Morocco will engage in cross-deck visits, military exchanges, and bilateral joint training sessions.

This marks the third time Chinese naval taskforces have docked in Morocco. According to the mission plan, while the Jiaozuo and Honghu undergo replenishment and rest, the guided-missile frigate Xuchang, also part of the taskforce, continues its escort missions in the Gulf of Aden and waters off Somalia.