China Hosts Russian Warship... Both Countries Discuss Joint Construction

China Emphasizes Support for Russian Navy Modernization Amid Russian Warship Shortage
Hospital Ship Peace Ark Mentioned... China Promotes National Image Through Medical Volunteer Activities

[Asia Economy Beijing=Special Correspondent Jo Young-shin] Russia, which has showcased a warm honeymoon relationship with China, is reported to be potentially signing a contract with China for warship construction.

Photo by China Military Online Capture

Chinese media including People's Daily Online cited Russian media reports on the 8th, stating that China and Russia have entered discussions for a warship construction contract.

Chinese media reported that China can assist in modernizing the Russian Navy, and if the contract is finalized, Russian warships will be built at Chinese shipyards.

Chinese media explained that the idea of 'Russian Navy warships being built in China' has existed for a long time but has not yet resulted in an actual contract. They added that the biggest problem for the Russian Navy is the shortage of large warships.

Chinese media also reported that along with combat ships, Russia is lacking non-combat ships. It is expected that Russia may first place orders for non-combat ships with Chinese shipbuilding companies.

Chinese media introduced that China independently built and operates the 'Peace Ark,' the largest special non-combat ship and hospital ship in Asia. The Chinese name is Daisan Dao, estimated at 14,000 tons, equipped with 8 operating rooms, 20 intensive care units, and 300 hospital beds.

Commissioned in 2007, this hospital ship is mainly used for China's overseas medical volunteer activities and promoting China's national image. It has provided medical volunteer services in international crisis areas such as the 2010 Haiti natural disaster, the 2013 Philippines typhoon, and the 2014 African Ebola outbreak. It also visits places in Latin America like Venezuela and Africa, where U.S. influence is limited, gaining goodwill through medical services.

Considering that Chinese media mentioned the Peace Ark, it appears highly likely that the first warship construction contract between China and Russia will be for a hospital ship. Chinese media emphasized their country's excellent shipbuilding technology and ability to build ships quickly. They also noted the expanding scope of cooperation between China and Russia and expressed expectations for Russian warship orders.

On the 4th, Russian President Vladimir Putin, who visited China, held a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping and agreed to cooperate in various fields including politics, economy, society, and culture. The two countries are also expected to cooperate in military-related areas.