China’s Ministry of National Defense has confirmed that Chinese naval troops recently expelled an Australian ship-borne helicopter over international waters in the Yellow Sea. The incident occurred during Chinese naval training exercises from May 3 to 4.
Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry, stated that the Australian guided missile destroyer HMAS Hobart had dispatched a helicopter on three occasions to conduct close-in reconnaissance, disrupting the Chinese navy’s normal training activities.
“The Chinese military’s measures to expel the Australian naval helicopter were reasonable, safe, professional, and legal,” Zhang emphasized. He added that the actions fully complied with international law and practice.
Zhang rebutted Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles’ claim that the incident was “a very serious matter,” urging Australia to respect China’s sovereignty and security concerns. “We urge the Australian side to truly respect China’s sovereignty and security concerns, cease spreading false narratives, strictly constrain the operations of its naval and air forces, stop all dangerous provocations, and avoid undermining the overall relationship between the two countries and the two militaries,” he stated.
The Chinese spokesperson highlighted the importance of maintaining stability and understanding between nations, especially in international waters where naval exercises are common. He reiterated that China’s response was measured and in accordance with international norms.
Reference(s):
China expels Australian helicopter after it disturbed naval training
cgtn.com
