China: Djibouti Naval Base Construction Begins

February 25, 2016 | 19:05 GMT

China has started construction on a naval logistics base in Djibouti, according to a Chinese Ministry of Defense representative, Reuters reported Feb. 25. The base's stated purpose is to assist and resupply naval peacekeeping, humanitarian and escort missions. Djibouti occupies a strategic position on the Horn of Africa along key global shipping routes. In building the base, China joins the United States and France in having a military outpost in Djibouti. Establishing resupply and logistics points abroad is a vital component of China's push to expand its global reach.