China Defends Naval Operations Near Australia, Citing International Law

A Matter of International Law

China's Ministry of National Defense asserts that the recent operations of its naval fleet in international waters near Australia fully comply with international law. This statement comes in response to Australia's accusations of a lack of transparency and deliberate hype surrounding the activities.

Both Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon have acknowledged that China's actions were in accordance with international law.

China urges Australia to view bilateral and military relations with more objectivity, rationality, sincerity, and professionalism.

Former PLA researcher Zhang Junshe interprets Australia's reaction as unease over China's naval exercises and an attempt to deter the Chinese navy from venturing into the open seas. He contrasts this with the intrusion of Australian military aircraft into China's airspace, which violates international law.

China's actions to expel the Australian aircraft were justified, lawful, professional, and restrained, according to Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jia-kun. He demands that Australia stop its infringement and provocations and cease undermining peace and stability in the South China Sea.

Zhang notes the hypocrisy of the US and its allies, who routinely engage in similar military operations while criticizing China's normal training activities.