Compliance with International Law and Regional Tensions

A Matter of International Law

China's Ministry of National Defense has asserted that the recent operations of its naval fleet in international waters near Australia are fully compliant with international law. This statement comes in response to Australia's accusations of a lack of transparency and deliberate hype regarding the exercises.

While Australia has acknowledged that China's actions are in accordance with international law, the Chinese spokesperson expressed "deep surprise and strong dissatisfaction" with Australia's remarks, calling them "completely inconsistent with the facts."

The spokesperson emphasized that the Chinese naval fleet conducted exercises within international waters far from the Australian coastline, with prior safety notices and live-fire training. They urged Australia to view bilateral and military relations with China objectively and professionally, contributing to stable development.

A former PLA researcher, Zhang Junshe, believes Australia's reaction stems from unease over China's naval presence and aims to deter the Chinese navy from venturing into the open seas. He contrasts this with the US and its allies' frequent military exercises in the region.

Zhang also highlighted the difference between China's naval exercises and the recent Australian military aircraft intrusion into China's airspace over the Xisha Islands, which violated international law. China's expulsion of the Australian aircraft was deemed justified and lawful, with demands for Australia to cease such actions and uphold regional peace and stability.

Despite criticism of China's normal training activities, the US and its allies, including Australia, routinely engage in similar military operations.