A Chinese fleet arrived at the US Naval Base in San Diego Monday morning, marking the Chinese navy's first visit to a US mainland port in nine years.

When the fleet composed by missile destroyer Qingdao and auxiliary ship Hongzehu cruised into San Diego port, hundreds of Chinese naval officers and sailors in white uniforms with blue neckerchiefs, stood at attention at the rails.

Receiving the Chinese fleet, Rear Admiral Len Hering, the commander of the US Navy Southwest Region, said more communication and cooperation between the US and Chinese navy would help maintain the peace in the Pacific.

"The US and Chinese navy both have the duty to keep peace and stability in this region," Hering said. "We hope this visit will help us better understand each other."

Rear Admiral Wang Fushan, deputy commander of the Chinese Navy North Sea Fleet, said he was moved by the Americans' hospitality.

"As soon as we arrived, we received a warm welcome," Wang said. "On behalf of Chinese people and the People's Liberation Army, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks for your hospitality."

"Also, our officers and sailors are deeply impressed by the professional level that the US navy has shown."

(Xinhua News Agency September 19, 2006)