In a recent escalation of maritime tensions, Chinese naval troops expelled an Australian ship-borne helicopter from international waters in the Yellow Sea. The Chinese Ministry of National Defense described the action as \"reasonable\" and in full compliance with international law, asserting that the helicopter disrupted the navy's regular training exercises.
Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry, responded to Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles' characterization of the incident as \"a very serious incident.\" Zhang emphasized that the Chinese military's decision to expel the helicopter was conducted safely, professionally, and legally.
The incident occurred between May 3 and 4, when the Australian guided missile destroyer HMAS Hobart deployed the helicopter three times for close reconnaissance missions. These operations were seen by the Chinese side as interference with their naval training activities.
According to Zhang, the Chinese naval fleet issued vocal warnings to the Australian helicopter before taking measures to expel it. He maintained that these actions adhered strictly to international laws and norms.
In a statement, Zhang urged Australia to respect China's sovereignty and security concerns. He called on the Australian side to cease spreading what he described as false narratives, limit the operations of its naval and air forces, and halt all dangerous provocations. Zhang also appealed for the preservation of the overall relationship between the two nations and their military forces.
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China expels Australian helicopter after it disturbed naval training
cgtn.com
