China’s Foreign Ministry has affirmed that recent naval drills conducted off Australia’s east coast are in full accordance with international laws and practices. At a press briefing on Friday, spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that the exercises were part of routine training in distant waters organized by the Southern Theater Command of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
“The drills were carried out in a safe, regulated, and professional manner,” Guo emphasized, highlighting that such activities are standard for naval operations.
Earlier, the Australian government had issued warnings to airlines about potential live-fire exercises by the Chinese navy in the Tasman Sea, the body of water separating Australia and New Zealand. Australian authorities have been closely monitoring the Chinese naval task group as it operated within Australia’s exclusive economic zone off its east coast since last week.
Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles commented on Thursday that the presence of the Chinese ships did not pose any threat and that they had not violated any maritime laws. “They have been operating in accordance with international law, and we respect their right to do so,” Marles remarked.
The event underscores the ongoing maritime activities in the region and highlights the importance of adherence to international norms to maintain peace and stability.
