Chinese-Polish multipurpose and heavylift joint venture Chipolbrok has turned 70, but it is already plotting a path decades ahead.

Formally known as Chinese-Polish Joint Stock Shipping Co, the venture was founded on 15 June 1951 by the governments of the two countries.

Formed with four ships, its fleet now numbers 23 vessels.

Chipolbrok is phasing out its last Rijeka-type cargo vessels built in Croatia in the 1990s and is turning its attention to replacing four Chinese-built, Orkan-type ships dating from 2003 and 2004.