SIMON’S TOWN, South Africa: Chinese and Iranian warships were docked off South Africa´s main navy base on Thursday ahead of exercises that officials said were also meant to involve Russia.
The January 9-16 “Will for Peace” drill hosted by South Africa risks further straining its ties with the United States, which is in dispute with many of the countries taking part.
AFP journalists saw two Chinese ships in Cape Town´s False Bay harbour on Wednesday, joined by an Iranian vessel on Thursday.
South African navy officials said warships from Russia were also expected to take part in the China-led exercises.
The drill was focused on the “safety of shipping and maritime economic activities”, the South African defence force said in December when it announced the manoeuvres.
