China has defended its construction of its first overseas naval base in Djibouti saying that the base will be used mostly for resupplying purposes, humanitarian aid, anti-piracy, and peacekeeping operations.

Critics said Beijing has launched an unusual charm offensive in defending its first overseas naval base as it seeks to assuage concerns of the international community about China's military expansion. 

Like Us on Facebook

Reports said Beijing's message was the exact opposite of  its aggressive stance on the disputed South China Sea where it lays claims to almost the entirety of the international waterway which has caused growing tensions across Asia and the United States.

International community

China's Defense Ministry had told Reuters that it has already relayed its intentions about Djibouti to the international community, reiterating that the facility was for resupply purposes, humanitarian aid, anti-piracy and peacekeeping operations.

"What needs to be stressed is that China upholds a path of peaceful development ... and has never engaged in an arms race or military expansion. This will never change,"a Chinese Foreign Ministry official said.

Beijing has, time and again, reiterated that it does not seek :US-style hegemony' by expanding its military reach including building bases overseas.

One Road, One Belt Strategy

Reports said that since China appears that it may be doing the opposite of what it had agreed not to do, it has been quietly briefing its officials about the need for a  Djibouti base and tapping the media to address concerns regarding China's goals.

"China is explaining it as part of the 'one road, one belt' strategy, to help link Ethiopia to the sea," said one Western diplomat who has been briefed by Chinese officials on the Djibouti base, referring to China's New Silk Road strategy.

China explained that the naval base will help open trade cooperation across continents and boost Beijing's economy by connecting it to the rest of the world.

Protect trade routes

Djibouti already hosts military facilities for the US and France. The Djibouti government has echoed Beijing's pronouncements that the base will be used for logistical support, refuelling, and anti-piracy operations.

The base will likewise be employed to protect trade routes.

Lying on the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, the tiny African nation of Djibouti serves as a gateway to the Suez Canal, one of the world's busiest shipping routes. 

TagsDjibouti naval base, Beijing, South China Sea, disputed territory, international community vs China, One Road, One China, one belt strategy, military expansion