The Changbaishan warship sails into France's military port of Toulon on February 9, 2015. [Photo: CRIENGLISH.com]

The 18th convoy fleet sent by the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy for escort missions in the Gulf of Aden and Somali waters arrived at France's military port of Toulon on Monday morning, starting off a five-day visit to the country.

The convoy consists of the Changbaishan, Yuncheng and Chaohu warships, as well as three shipboard helicopters and 85 special operations soldiers.

The crew on board the ships were welcomed upon their arrival by people at the port and overseas Chinese residents.

The 18th convoy fleet completed its escort missions on Dec. 26, 2014.

During the flotilla's five-day stopover, officers of both navies will meet for a series of military and cultural activities, and on its way back, a joint naval military drill will also be held by the two sides.

The convoy, after visiting Britain, Germany and the Netherlands, will depart for a visit to Greece on Friday.