Chinese warships visit US navy base after joint drill

A Chinese flotilla arrived at San Diego naval base in the US on Sunday for a five-day visit after taking part in the world's largest maritime military drill.

Task Group 171 participated in the Rim of the Pacific, or RIMPAC, exercise off Hawaii. The group includes the missile destroyer Haikou, missile frigate Yueyang and supply ship Qiandaohu, and has a ship-borne helicopter and more than 700 sailors and officers.

"Military-to-military engagements, like RIMPAC and this port visit, are very important to the relationship between our navies," Rear Admiral Patrick Lorge, commander of US Navy Region Southwest, said at a welcoming ceremony that featured Chinese cultural performances. "They help us build trust and enhance transparency."