One of China’s spacecraft tracking ships, Yuanwang-7, is in the coun­try.

With 100 crew members on board, the purpose of its visit is to replenish logis­tics and recuperate its crew after a pe­riod of offshore operation.

The ship arrived at the Suva port on November 10 and would be the 10th time it has berthed in Suva since it came into service in 2016.

Yuanwang ship is the spacecraft track­ing ship that plays a significant role in China’s aerospace cause which aims to serve the overall interests of mankind.

“Berthing at the Port of Suva is very natural for an ocean going vessel,” the Chinese Embassy in Fiji stated.

“Each port call needs approval of the Fijian Government.”

Its sister ship Yuanwang-3 also berthed at the Suva port twice this year.

“In the past, when Yuanwang ships berthed at Port of Suva, it usually had exchange activities with the local com­munities,” the Embassy stated.

“For example, in December 2019, the crew members visited Tamavua village in Suva, presenting the villagers with footballs, basketballs, volleyballs and other sports equipment, and some daily household cleaning products.

“However, due to the COVID-19 pan­demic, such kind of activities came into a halt and has not been resumed.

“Each port call ensures the successful completion of its mission and reflects the traditional and longstanding friend­ship between China and Fiji.” the Em­bassy also highlighted.

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