Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced that Chinese warships conducted live-fire drills off the country’s eastern coast, affecting international air traffic. Airlines flying from Australia’s airspace to New Zealand have been advised to exercise caution.
International Flights Alter Routes
According to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), as a result of warnings issued by Airservices Australia, at least three commercial flight routes were altered. Penny Wong stated, “It is standard practice to provide guidance to vessels and aircraft in the area, and Airservices Australia is taking the necessary precautions.”
Chinese Warships Conduct Drills in International Waters
Three warships from the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) are currently conducting drills off Eden, on the southern coast of New South Wales, in international waters. The participating vessels are:
- Jiangkai-class frigate Hengyang
- Renhai-class cruiser Zunyi
- Fuchi-class replenishment ship Weishanhu
While it was noted that China is acting in accordance with international law, the Australian military has been monitoring Chinese ships in the region for days.
Is Tension Between Australia and China Rising?
Australia stated that it has been engaged in discussions with China regarding naval exercises and the transparency of live-fire drills. In recent years, the AUKUS alliance (the defense pact between Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom) and military activities in the Indo-Pacific region have led to heightened tensions between the two countries.
These developments are raising new debates about Australia’s stance on China’s military presence. Experts speculate whether Australia will respond diplomatically or with more stringent measures to these drills.
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