BEIJING, Jan. 2 -- Chinaese frigate Yan Cheng set out on Tuesday for the Mediterranean to escort maritime transportation of Syria's chemical weapons, a Foreign Ministry spokesman said on Thursday.

Spokesman Qin Gang told a regular press briefing that the Yan Cheng is currently sailing through the Suez Canal.

He said China appreciates Egyptian cooperation, noting that the destruction of the weapons and the escort enjoyed wide support from the international community.

The Yan Cheng will cooperate with frigates from other countries, including Russia, when it reaches Limassol in Cyprus.