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The People’s Republic of China has announced intentions to send the aircraft carriers Liaoning and Shandong for training exercises in the western Pacific.
The two People’s Liberation Army aircraft carriers are expected to test troop capabilities in far-sea defence and joint operations, according to Chinese PLA Navy spokesperson Senior Captain Wang Xuemeng.
“This is a routine arrangement included in the annual training plan, aiming to improve the Chinese PLA Navy’s ability to fulfil missions,” Xuemeng said.
“The training complies with relevant international law and practice and is not targeted at specific countries or entity.”
Media reports of the aircraft carrier operations have speculated that this is the first time the Chinese Navy has sent two active-duty aircraft carriers and their escort ships into the Pacific Ocean together.
In defence negotiations earlier this week, Chinese Defense Minister Admiral Dong Jun met with visiting South African National Defence Force (SANDF) Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya to reinforce military cooperation, strategic communications and defence exchanges.
“China is willing to work with South Africa to practice the true multilateralism and jointly oppose the hegemony, bullying, power politics and division and confrontation,” Admiral Dong said.
General Maphwanya confirmed South Africa’s appreciation for the Chinese military’s long-standing strong support and assistance to the SANDF.
“South Africa highly values its relations with China and firmly adheres to the one-China principle. The militaries of South Africa and China enjoy long-term friendship and are sincere friends and partners,” he said.
