Russia, China, Iran drills contribute to maritime security: Beijing

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
30 Mar 2023 12:03

The Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson says the Chinese army is ready to cooperate with the Russian army to further strengthen strategic communication and coordination.

The flags of China, Iran, and Russia are seen waving during an award ceremony for the diving competition of the International Army Games hosted on Iran's Kish Island in August 2019 (Russian Defense Ministry)

Chinese Defense Ministry Spokesperson Tan Kefei pointed out on Thursday that the joint military exercises of China, Russia, and Iran have made a positive contribution to maritime security, as well as to regional peace and stability.

"The exercises have further strengthened the traditional friendship and practical cooperation [of the navies of the three countries], and made a positive contribution to maritime security, regional peace and stability," Tan told reporters.

The drills that took place from March 15-18, have also increased the ability of the three countries' navies to jointly carry out a variety of military tasks at sea, the official noted.

Chinese Army ready to cooperate with Russian Army to strengthen coordination

In the same context, Tan underlined that the Chinese army is ready to cooperate with the Russian army to further strengthen strategic communication and coordination.

"The Chinese army is ready to make efforts together with the Russian army to fully implement the consensus reached by the leaders of the two states, to further strengthen strategic coordination and communication," the Chinese Spokesperson indicated.

Tan also affirmed that the Chinese army is ready to cooperate with the Russian army to further strengthen mutual trust in the military sphere, maintain regional peace and security, and implement global security initiatives. It is also ready to jointly protect international justice together with the Russian army.

This comes a week after the recent summit between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.

A couple of days ago, Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang described the summit as "very successful and productive," adding that many agreements were reached during Xi's recent trip to Moscow

The two leaders discussed bilateral ties and ways to develop them, in addition to regional security and peace, Qin said.

Xi made a three-day official trip to Moscow from March 20 to 22, marking his first abroad trip after his reelection and his first visit to Russia since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, where he met with Putin and held what was described by the media as historic talks.

The existing relations between China and Russia demonstrate healthy development dynamics, the Chinese President underlined.

The two leaders also signed two joint strategic documents aiming to boost the two global powers' economic and diplomatic partnership.