Russia, China conduct joint naval exercises

SANAA, Dec. 19 (YPA) – Russia’s Ministry of Defense said on Monday that Russia and China would conduct joint naval exercises on December 21 and 27.

The ministry explained in a statement that the joint naval exercises, which have been held annually since 2012, will include the firing of missiles and artillery shells in the East China Sea.

“The main purpose of the exercises is to enhance maritime cooperation between Russia and China and to maintain peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region,” The statement continued to say.

Moscow has sought closer political, security and economic ties with Beijing since its invasion of Ukraine in February, and regards Chinese leader Xi Jinping as a key ally in an anti-Western alliance.

The two countries signed a “borderless” strategic partnership just days before Moscow launched its biggest territorial invasion into Europe since World War Two in February, but Beijing has since expressed concern about Russia’s actions in Ukraine.

Russia said that 4 of its ships would participate in the maneuvers, including the Russian cruiser Varyag, in addition to 6 Chinese ships, along with planes and helicopters from both sides.

AA