Russian and Chinese naval vessels are collaborating on joint maritime patrols in the Pacific Ocean, while the Chinese Defense Minister calls for enhanced military cooperation between the two countries. These operations have raised concerns in nearby territories.
Russian and Chinese warships are conducting joint maritime patrols in the Pacific Ocean involving rescue training and drills for countering air strikes, Moscow’s defense ministry said Friday.
Video released by Russian state news agency TASS showed nine large vessels sailing in a diamond formation as crew members stood to attention on deck.
The drills also included practising the “replenishment of fuel reserves by ships and the transfer of cargo on the go,” the Defense Ministry said, adding that the joint detachment of ships had covered more than 6,400 nautical miles since the start of the exercises.
“These actions are not aimed at a third party and are not related to the current international and regional situation,” a Chinese Defense Ministry Spokesperson said Monday.
Ties between Moscow and Beijing have grown closer in recent years, as prolonged fighting in Ukraine has shattered Russia’s relationship with Western governments.
Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu visited Russia this week to attend the 11th Moscow Conference on International Security, where he called for closer military cooperation.
The displays of force have caused concerns in the region, the July air patrol led to South Korea deploying fighter jets as a precaution.
Katrine Houmøller, with AFP
