China and Russia Launch Major Naval Drills in Southern China as NATO Criticizes Their Strategic Partnership
Fiona Nanna, ForeMedia News
3 minutes read. Updated 3:08PM GMT Tues, 16 July, 2024
China and Russia have commenced significant joint naval exercises at a military port in southern China, reflecting intensifying geopolitical tensions. The “Joint Sea-2024” drills, hosted in Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, began on July 14 and are scheduled to run until mid-July.
The Chinese Defense Ministry highlighted that these exercises aim to “demonstrate the resolve and capabilities of the two sides in jointly addressing maritime security threats and preserving global and regional peace and stability.” This initiative is viewed as a critical step in enhancing the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership for a new era.
According to state broadcaster CCTV, the drills will include a range of sophisticated maneuvers such as anti-missile exercises, sea strikes, and air defense operations. Additionally, Xinhua News Agency reported that naval forces from both nations participated in on-map military simulations and tactical coordination exercises shortly after the opening ceremony in Zhanjiang.
These exercises come on the heels of a recent NATO summit in Washington, where the 32-member Western military alliance described Beijing as a “decisive enabler” of Russia in the Ukraine conflict. The NATO communiqué underscored China’s “no-limits partnership” with Russia and pointed to Beijing’s extensive support for Russia’s defense industrial base.
Reacting to NATO’s assertions, Moscow accused Western nations of exacerbating the conflict by supplying weapons to Ukraine, warning that such actions would only prolong the war. Beijing also condemned NATO’s position, with spokesperson Lin Jian stating, “NATO hyping up China’s responsibility on the Ukraine issue is unreasonable and has sinister motives.”
Lin Jian further urged NATO to stop interfering in China’s internal politics and avoid creating chaos in the Asia-Pacific region after already causing turmoil in Europe.
The joint naval exercises highlight the increasing military cooperation between China and Russia amid rising tensions with the US-led NATO alliance. This development marks a significant shift in global strategic alliances and raises concerns about the future stability of international relations.
For more detailed updates on international military activities and geopolitical developments, follow our coverage at Your Website’s International Relations Section.
