“They have made significant contribution towards peace and stability, they have proven to the world with their actions that the Chinese military is a strong force for world peace.”

He quoted Winston Churchill saying: “Continuous effort, not strength or intelligence, is the key to unlocking our potential.

“I believe the visit to Britain by the 26th Chinese Navy Escort Task Force will mark a new beginning of a closer, friendly change in cooperation between the Chinese and British militaries.”

The frigates Huanggang and Yangzhou have already been to Belgium, Holland and Denmark as part of a tour of European ports, and are due to sail to France on Saturday."

The ships will host a series of meetings between senior naval officers over the course of the week.

Mr Liu said: “During this visit our two navies will hold the first humanitarian rescue symposium.

“All these are reflections of the ever closer military ties and strategic mutual trust between our two countries.

“During this visit our two navies will exchange views on a broad range of issues, from anti-piracy to humanitarian rescues.