President Xi Jinping has sent a special envoy to the small African nation, Djibouti, where Beijing's first overseas military base is currently being constructed.

Xi has instructed Yan Junqi, deputy head of the National People's Congress, to attend the inauguration of Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh and President Yoweri Museveni in nearby Uganda.

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The state-run news agency, Xinhua, reported on Saturday that although it is unclear whether Yan would visit the construction site for the base, Yan's attendance at the inauguration shows the importance of the African nation's political, economic, and military positions to Beijing.

Watchful eye

Foreign militaries and the international community have cast a watchful eye on Beijing's plan to build a base in Djibouti since the United States and France have already established military outposts in the country.

China says the military base will serve as a logistic center that will support a host of missions such as anti-piracy patrols, humanitarian efforts, and peacekeeping operations in African nations.

China's defense ministry said the base will provide support for its troops on UN peacekeeping missions and will expedite humanitarian efforts for those in need of help.

As a logistic center, China said the base will also provide help to distressed ships and will allow easier refueling and replenishing for vessels.

Medical help

Part of the services that will be provided by the base include medical help, as well as planning support, rest and recreation for the Chinese troops, the defense ministry said.

Military experts have noted that China's new military base will provide the People's Liberation Army (PLA) with wider coverage for its mission and enhance its ability to protect Chinese interests in Africa.

The defense ministry refused to give any more details about its first overseas military base. Until now, Beijing has been upholding its long-time policy of not establishing military alliances or a permanent overseas military presence.

TagsDjibouti, Chinese President Xi jinping, African nations, military base, international community, United States, china