The destroyer's first trip to the east China port is part of an exchange project between China and Britain in the field of national defense.

David Snelson, commander of British maritime forces, said at the welcoming ceremony that the visit indicates the decision of the British side to conduct constructive and fruitful cooperation with the Chinese side on defense affairs.

During the destroyer's visit, various activities will be held to support and promote bilateral dialogue in various areas, and to further strengthen the ties in business and politics, according to British Ambassador to China Christopher Owen Hum.

Since Shanghai became the sister city of Britain's Liverpool in1999, the two cities have developed sound cooperation in many fields.

Hum said the British side hopes to take this opportunity to show its support for the Chinese government's efforts in the fight against severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).

The visiting destroyer carries 250 naval staff. It was put into service in 1979.

(Xinhua News Agency May 25, 2003)