China opens military base in Djibouti

摘要

China formally inaugurated its first foreign military base during a ceremony held at the new facility in Djibouti on 1 August: the 90th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). Chinese television broadcast footage showing a parade involving more than 240 Chinese marines, sailors, and medics, as well as a small contingent of Dji-boutian soldiers. Eight ZBD-09 wheeled infantry fighting vehicles and four Dongfeng 4×4 light armoured vehicles could be seen during the ceremony. It is unclear why China has deployed a mechanised infantry detachment to a country known for stability.