Russian and Chinese warships head for the Mediterranean: Nine vessels to take part in first ever joint training exercises in Europe

By Chris Pleasance

Nine Russian and Chinese warships have set sail for the Mediterranean to take part in joint training exercises between the two nations.

The vessels were pictured at harbour near the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk earlier today, before heading for central Europe, where they will take part in 11 days of manoeuvres.

The start of the exercise marks the first joint operation by the two powers in European waters, and the furthest the People's Libaeration Army has travelled to take part in training. 

Chinese officials said that the drills 'clearly demonstrate that both countries will work with each other to safeguard peace and post-war international order'.

The statement also out at the West, saying that the exercises show 'those suspicious of such cooperation' that 'closer China-Russia relations can contribute to a better world'.