"The flagship of 21st escort taskforce of China`s Navy and the flagship of NATO Task Force 508 have held exercises against piracy in the Gulf of Aden. The maneuvers have become the first joint drills of patrol vehicles of China and NATO," a statement published on the ministry website said.
The Chinese Defense Ministry added that the exercises were carried out on Wednesday.
The joint drills are intended to enhance bilateral communication and cooperation, and ensure peace and stability in the Gulf of Aden, the ministry added.
On Thursday, China held negotiations with the African country Djibouti on the construction of a naval logistics center, which would allow the Chinese military to carry out humanitarian rescue and anti-piracy missions in Gulf of Aden and Somali waters.
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