Beijing (TDI): Chinese air and naval forces conducted joint military exercises in a disputed area of the South China Sea.
This move comes just hours after China’s top diplomat discussed strategies to reduce regional tensions with his U.S. counterpart.
According to a statement issued by Southern Theatre Command of the People’s Liberation Army the drills will include “routine” early warning and reconnaissance exercises, as well as patrols around Scarborough Shoal.
However, no further details about the operations were provided.
The statement says that its troops are ensuring a high level of vigilance to defend national sovereignty, security, and maritime rights and interests.
Scarborough Shoal, located approximately 200 km (124 miles) from the Philippines, is one of the region’s most contested features and lies within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
China claims almost the entire South China Sea, including Scarborough Shoal, prized for its abundant fish stocks and picturesque lagoon.
This announcement of military drills follows reports that Australia, the Philippines, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States will conduct joint maritime activities within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, raising further tensions in the area.
