China has shown some of its naval vessels to foreign media for the first time in five years, ahead of an international conference that brings together high-ranking naval officers from 29 countries.

The Chinese navy allowed foreign media reporters to view four warships, including destroyers and a supply ship, in the eastern port city of Qingdao, where China’s North Sea Fleet is headquartered.

The navy hosts the 19th Western Pacific Naval Symposium in Qingdao from Sunday. The top officer of Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force is among the participants.

Naval officers are expected to exchange views on regulations concerning possible accidental collisions at sea.
Bilateral meetings are also expected to be held on the sidelines of the conference.

A Chinese navy spokesperson told reporters on Saturday that China is ready to adhere to multilateralism, and is willing to jointly respond to risks concerning maritime safety.

Many countries are becoming increasingly wary of China’s maritime activities in the South and East China seas. Observers say China intends to keep these countries in check by displaying the prowess of its naval forces, while underscoring its commitment to international cooperation.