China, Russia to Hold Joint Military Drills

Local Editor

China and Russia announced that they will hold joint naval drill in the East China Sea on May 20 to improve their ability to cope with maritime security threats.

At least 16 Chinese and Russian warships, including two submarines, will take part in the drill. The military maneuvers will include simulated attacks, escort of ships, and search and rescue operations.

Putin said in an interview that he is looking forward to the upcoming visit to Shanghai, stating that he and his Chinese counterpart will discuss how previous agreements are being implemented and outline new objectives for the future.

He added "Russia and China successfully cooperate in the international arena and closely coordinate their steps to address international challenges and crises. Our positions on the main global and regional issues are similar or even identical."
"The upcoming talks will give a powerful impetus to further strengthening of bilateral cooperation in all areas and deeper coordination in the international arena." Putin assured.

The military drills come amid simmering tensions between Russia and the West over the crisis in Ukraine.
China has also been involved in a long-running dispute with Japan over the sovereignty of a group of islands in the East China Sea.

Russia and China have regularly held joint naval drills since 2005 within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization [SCO].

Source: News Agencies, Edited by website team