Topic: US drone bases in Africa
Q: The United States established drone bases in Africa. Do you think the real military bases will be set up? If so, what will be the impact to China-Africa relations?
A: It depends on the US itself and the African countries. The relationships between China and African countries are the normal country-to-country relations. We hope the relationship will not be disturbed and damaged by any external interferences.
Topic: Escort duties in Gulf of Aden
Q: Please talk about Seychelles inviting China to establish a military base to guard against pirates.
A: Actually, they did not invite us to establish a military base, but invited Chinese navy vessels carrying out escort duties in the Gulf of Aden to stop at ports in Seychelles for supplies and rest.
Chinese navy vessels' escort mission in the Gulf of Aden is at the invitation of the Somali government. And it's a sign that China is taking up international responsibilities. We thank Seychelles for its friendly suggestion.
