US admiral: China naval strength no surprise

The US navy chief, who met his Chinese counterpart Wu Shengli on Saturday, emphasized the importance of military exchanges between the two countries.

Tensions between the United States and China rose last month over an incident in the South China Sea. The US claimed five Chinese ships had harassed USNS Impeccable in international waters on March 8. But China said the ship was on Chinese waters and had violated international and Chinese laws.

"That's why visits like mine, relationships like mine with Wu are important."

Wu said last week that the country plans to develop a new generation of warships and aircraft.

Roughead also emphasized working with China to combat piracy in the seas off Somalia.

"The opportunity for our navies to work together against the threat of piracy is very important," he said.

Analysts said Roughead's remarks show the US is keen to strengthen military exchanges with China.