The Honolulu-based U.S. Coast Guard cutter Rush arrived in east China's coastal city of Qingdao on Sunday afternoon, kicking off a five-day visit at the invitation of China's Ministry of Public Security (MPS).

Rush is the first major Coast Guard vessel to visit China since World War II, according to Capt. Dana Ware, commanding officer of Rush. The 115-meter ship and its crew of 190 were warmly welcomed by Chinese counterparts and local people upon its arrival at the Qingdao Pier. Major General Chen Weiming of the MPS Border Control Department and Vice Admiral Charles D. Wurster of the U.S. Coast Guard addressed the welcoming ceremony.

During Rush's stay in Qingdao, the two sides will conduct professional law enforcement exchanges, which will serve to enhance international cooperation in the area of law enforcement at sea.

Both Chinese and U.S. law enforcement teams will also hold a forum to discuss and demonstrate techniques for boarding and searching suspected vessels, sharing information in combating at-sea crimes.

Rush crew members will also participate in friendly events such as basketball and cultural tours with the Chinese counterparts to deepen mutual understanding.

The Coast Guard is part of the Department of Homeland Security of the United Sates.

Law enforcement cooperation is an important part of Sino-U.S. ties. To enforce the China-U.S. agreement on mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, combating transnational crimes, anti-narcotics, the return of fugitives and illegal emigration, China and the United States have enhanced relations with the set-up of the China-U.S. Joint Liaison Group on law enforcement cooperation in 1998 to promote bilateral cooperation in combating crime.

Rush is one of two High Endurance Cutters based in Honolulu. The primary mission of Rush is to enforce laws and treaties and conduct search and rescue throughout the Pacific.

Source: Xinhua