The Chinese navy's recent military drills off Australia's east coast adhere to relevant international laws and practices, according to a spokesperson from the Chinese Foreign Ministry.
During a daily news briefing on Friday, spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that the exercises were organized by the Southern Theater Command of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) as part of routine training in distant waters. He emphasized that the drills were carried out in a safe, regulated, and professional manner.
In response, the Australian government issued warnings to airlines about potential live-fire exercises by the Chinese navy in the Tasman Sea, located between Australia and New Zealand.
The Australian side has been closely monitoring the Chinese navy task group within its exclusive economic zone off the east coast since last week. Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles affirmed on Thursday that the ships do not pose any threats and are not breaching maritime laws.
Reference(s):
China: Military drills off Australia's east coast comply with intl law
cgtn.com
