On Sunday, China's Defense Ministry responded to Australia's claims regarding the diversion of three passenger flights due to live-fire drills conducted by the Chinese navy. The ministry labeled Australia’s allegations as “unreasonable accusations” and accused it of deliberately exaggerating the situation. Wu Qian, the ministry’s leading spokesperson, emphasized that China had issued prior safety notices and asserted that its military activities complied with international law, ensuring aviation safety was not compromised.
The incident in question occurred on Friday when three flights traveling from Sydney to Christchurch and Queenstown were airborne. According to Australian media outlets, the aircraft were subsequently warned by a Chinese warship about the live-fire exercise underway. Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles confirmed that while the flights successfully diverted to ensure passenger safety, the Australian navy typically provides a window of 12 to 24 hours' notice prior to live-fire drills for airlines to adjust their plans accordingly.
In an effort to address the situation diplomatically, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong sought clarification from her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, during their meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, following a gathering of G20 foreign ministers. In her discussions, Wong highlighted Australia's expectations regarding safe and professional military conduct, as well as addressing concerns about consular cases and human rights violations. She specifically requested an explanation for the lack of advance notification regarding the Chinese naval live-fire drills.
The presence of three Chinese naval vessels—comprising a frigate, a cruiser, and a replenishment ship—had already sparked significant attention from both the Australian and New Zealand military forces prior to the incident. Marles described the movements of these vessels as unusual, though he noted that such activities by the Chinese navy were not unprecedented in the region.
This recent episode underscores the evolving dynamics in the maritime security landscape surrounding Australia and New Zealand, raising further questions about military communications and safety protocols between nations. The incident reflects ongoing tensions and the delicate balance of military diplomacy in the Asia-Pacific region, where naval activities can have far-reaching implications for regional security and international relations.
