According to Reuters reporting on August 12 local time, the Indonesian Navy stated that the naval exercises conducted by Chinese and Indonesian ships in waters east of Taiwan were ‘routine exercises’ and had nothing to do with so-called ‘combat operations’. Previously, the Taiwanese authorities claimed that these exercises were ‘very dangerous’.
The Indonesian Navy stated that its frigate “Lei” will conduct “transit exercises” with other countries during its return journey from a visit to Russia. These exercises have nothing to do with combat operations. Tunggul, a spokesman for the Indonesian Navy, told Reuters that this is a common naval practice followed when crossing the waters of other countries. However, he did not mention China directly.
Previously, according to a report released by the Ministry of National Defense on August 11, in mid-August, the Chinese Navy’s Honghe ship will conduct navigation drills with the Indonesian Navy’s “Le” frigate in waters east of Taiwan. The drills will focus on communication exercises and maritime supply operations, aiming to enhance the joint operational capabilities of both navies, deepen practical cooperation between the two countries, and jointly maintain regional peace and stability.
This is also the first time that Chinese and foreign navies have conducted drills in this area, which has attracted international attention.
Marine military expert Zhang Junshe told the Observer Network that this joint exercise is of great significance, indicating that China has sovereign rights and jurisdiction over its exclusive economic zone east of Taiwan Island, sending a clear message to the outside world.
Zhang Junshe emphasized that the waters east of Taiwan Island are China's territorial waters, exclusive economic zones, and continental shelf. It is reasonable and legal for Chinese naval forces to conduct exercises in these relevant waters.
"The Chinese navy conducts drills in its own territorial waters and adjacent seas with navies of other countries, which is completely normal and consistent with international law and customary practices. The public should view this as routine and refrain from making accusations or unfounded claims." - Zhang Jun said.
