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Clara Montgomery
Concerns Rise as Chinese Warships Conduct Live-Fire Drills in Tasman Sea
New Zealand raised concerns over recent live-fire drills by Chinese warships in the Tasman Sea, indicating an unprecedented show of military capability. Defense Minister Judith Collins emphasized the advanced technology of the vessels involved. China’s state media suggested such exercises will become routine, while Australia’s leaders called for better communication regarding future drills.
New Zealand has expressed heightened concerns regarding live-fire drills carried out by Chinese warships in the Tasman Sea. These exercises are indicative of China’s intent to enhance its blue-water naval capabilities. Chinese naval vessels conducted two significant live-fire drills over the weekend, prompting notable changes in flight paths for passenger aircraft and raising alarms among officials in both New Zealand and Australia.
Judith Collins, New Zealand’s Defense Minister, characterized the drills as unprecedented, highlighting the advanced capabilities of the Chinese task force involved. She noted, “We’ve certainly never seen a task force or task group of this capability undertaking that sort of work. So it is certainly a change.” Collins emphasized the impressive specifications of the Chinese vessels, mentioning their sophisticated weapon systems, including vertical launch cells and long-range missile capabilities.
Chinese state media has suggested that Western nations need to acclimate to these types of military operations occurring in their regional waters. Military expert Song Zhongping stated in the Global Times that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy will expand its exercises internationally, implying that such activities near foreign territories are expected to increase over time.
Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, acknowledged that the drills conformed to international law but expressed that China could have provided more advanced notice. In a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong sought clarity regarding the exercises. In response, the Chinese Defense Ministry criticized Australia for overstating concerns, asserting that safety protocols had been followed in conducting the drills.
Minister Collins criticized the notification provided by China about the military exercises, stating that it was insufficiently timely. She remarked that civil aviation was only notified a few hours ahead, in sharp contrast to the best practice of giving 12 to 24 hours’ notice. She affirmed that New Zealand naval forces were closely monitoring the situation as the Chinese vessels changed formations offshore.
In a diplomatic move, New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters is scheduled for a visit to China following an invitation from Foreign Minister Wang Yi, highlighting ongoing efforts to maintain communication between the two countries.
In summary, the live-fire drills conducted by Chinese warships in the Tasman Sea have provoked notable concern among officials in New Zealand and Australia. The unprecedented nature and advanced capabilities of the exercises have drawn significant attention. While adhering to international regulations, the Chinese military’s increased presence and notification practices remain topics of discussion among regional leaders.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
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