September 16:China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy’s 48th Escort Task Group is set to visit Bangladesh on its return journey after completing its mission in the Gulf of Aden. In addition to Bangladesh, the Chinese naval group will also visit Myanmar and Malaysia.
Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Jiang Bin disclosed the information at a press conference on Monday. He said the task group is currently on its way back to China after completing its mission in the Gulf of Aden.
During the visits, professional exchanges with the navies of the respective countries will be held, along with “Ship Open Day” activities to facilitate ship visits. Jiang Bin said these activities will further strengthen the longstanding friendship and strategic mutual trust between the countries.
He further said the visit will play an important role in enhancing mutual cooperation and relations with neighboring countries, with the aim of building a shared future.
China’s 48th Naval Escort Task Group comprises the guided-missile destroyer Taishan, the guided-missile frigate Tashan, and the integrated supply ship Taihu.
The task group set sail on October 11, 2025, for an escort mission in the Gulf of Aden and the coastal waters off Somalia.
Since December 2008, the PLA Navy has regularly conducted escort missions in the Gulf of Aden and waters off Somalia to combat piracy and ensure the safety of commercial vessels.
The visit by the Chinese naval group is expected to add a new dimension to maritime cooperation between Bangladesh and China and further strengthen bilateral relations.
Source: Nahar, Hashim, Xinhua.