CRI听力:US Looks forward to China's Broader Participation in RIMPAC

A U.S. navy commander has paid a visit to the Chinese fleet taking part in RIMPAC, expressing optimism over better and deeper ties between the two forces.

Vice Admiral Kenneth E. Floyd is the commander of the U.S. Third Fleet.

"Thank you again for bringing the ships and all of the sailors to Hawaii. All the 22 nations participating can come together, talk together, learn from each other and operate together. All the work that has done over the last two years and preparing for RIMPAC, we've learnt a lot about each other. And through this exercise, I think we will be able to work in the future more efficiently together. "

Floyd, who is also the commander of this year's RIMPAC, says the US will continue to invite the Chinese navy to the biennial naval exercise.

It is the first time for the Chinese navy to participate in the world's largest naval drill.

Four Chinese vessels, including missile destroyer Haikou and hospital ship Peace Ark have joined the drill.

Zhao Xiaogang is the drill director of the Chinese fleet.

"We have had a smooth journey after meeting up with the U.S. third fleet in Guam. During the trip, we have conducted a number of pre-exercises, which helped us to prepare for the actual drill. Crew members from the two countries also have a better understanding of each other. We hope there will be more opportunities like this to communicate with other navies."

During the exchange program, a medical team from the U.S. Third Fleet also visited China's hospital ship Peace Ark.

While touring the vessel, the Third Fleet medical staff also tried out a traditional Chinese-medicine therapy, cupping glass.

Lieutenant Colonel Nicholas Wistle.

"I feel great. I have never had cupping, I have had acupuncture before, never cupping. It was very interesting. In Canada, we use some parts of the traditional Chinese medicine in the military. We are very focused on making our patients better. We think there is lot to be gained for using traditional Chinese medicines and others. We will embrace anything that will make our patients do better."

The US medical team also expressed its desire for more cooperation with the Chinese team in humanitarian aid.

Initiated by the U.S. Army, this year's RIMPAC is the 24th such exercise since 1971.

23 countries are participating in this year's drill.

The drill, which runs till the end of July, will focus on developing maritime safety and security capabilities.

For CRI, I'm Alexander Aucott.