Navy made savvy by Zheng He voyage: major general

Dalian (CNS) -- Led by major general Liao Shining, the naval vessel Zheng He departed on its goodwill voyage around the world from a military port in Dalian, Liaoning Province on Monday morning.

The vessel will pay friendly visits to 11 countries over the next five months. Liao said they shoulder the mission of enhancing bilateral ties between China and the countries they will visit.

It is the Chinese navy's second round-the-world voyage; the previous one, and the first of the modern age, took place in 2002. Liao said crew members include 110 Chinese and foreign students from a military college, 13 of whom are females. The duration and distance of the global circumnavigation will both set records in China's history of naval training.

Liao said the offshore internship will be comprehensive training for future naval officers, an experience intended to enhance the candidate's grasp of theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

"It's a great opportunity for crew members to widen their vision and get exposure to the cultures and folk customs of different nations, added Liao.