Beijing must show navy is for protection only

China's naval might was on show off the port of Qingdao yesterday to mark the 60th anniversary of the PLA Navy. Some of the foreign observers would not have been overly impressed by the display: the nation's maritime force is less developed and not as well equipped as some western and regional navies.

Yet, displays like yesterday's, portrayed by the state media as a signal of the nation's intent to develop a far-ranging naval force, have caused a measure of disquiet. The navy already has 225,000 sailors, hundreds of ships and Asia's biggest submarine fleet with about 70 vessels, up to 10 of them nuclear-powered. A military budget growing by double digits annually raises questions. It is therefore difficult for some governments to believe claims that no matter what the extent of development, China will never seek hegemony.

It was with these foreign concerns in mind that President Hu Jintao stressed yesterday that the Chinese military would 'always be a force for the preservation of world peace and advancement of common development'. China would never threaten other nations or seek regional dominance, Mr Hu stressed as he launched the proceedings and met foreign naval commanders whose vessels took part in the review. Such words are meant to soothe fears about the navy's rapid expansion.

The central government's confidence in the navy was shown in its move this year to send warships to the Gulf of Aden to protect Chinese vessels from Somali pirates. It was the first time that armed ships had gone beyond Chinese shores since Zheng He commanded a fleet to Africa six centuries ago. Until the Somali mission, our navy's role had focused on coastal waters and occasional friendly port calls.

China has every reason to exercise its right to protect its interests around the world - a right which all countries are entitled to. As a nation that is increasingly dependent on imports, much of them coming by sea, it has a need - and the responsibility - to protect vital sea lanes.

Understandably, countries in the region, particularly those with territorial disputes with China, feel uneasy about the growing strength of the navy. Beijing needs to assure them it will not wantonly use its military weight to press its claims. Indeed, it has been dealing with each dispute diplomatically. Such conflicts have been set aside to build co-operation in other areas. Relations with these nations are being explored in a pragmatic way.