Jakarta, CNN Indonesia —
Russia and China will do exercise military together in August.
The combat exercise involving 10,000 troops is planned to be held in the Ningxia Hui autonomous region, China.
“The purpose of this exercise is to consolidate and develop a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between China and Russia,” said Chinese Defense Ministry Spokesman Wu Qian Thursday (29/7), as quoted from South China Morning Post.
“The exercise will also further demonstrate the determination and capability of both sides to fight terrorist forces and together maintain peace and security in the area.”
Wu said the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Western Theater Command troops would take part in the exercise. They will join Russian forces from the Eastern Military District.
This exercise will involve a number of combat equipment, aircraft, artillery and armored equipment. The exercises also enhance the troop’s ability to conduct joint reconnaissance, early warning, information and electronic attacks, and joint strikes.
Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu confirmed his country welcomed the invitation from China to take part in the exercise.
“We have found new forms of cooperation through joint efforts and continue to carry out effective cooperation,” Shoigu said as reported by the news agency Sputnik.
Russia has been trying to improve ties with China since 2014, when its political ties with the West slumped to a post-Cold War low over Ukraine’s annexation of Crimea.
The war games take place at a time when both countries are facing a deteriorating relationship with the United States.
On Thursday, China’s Defense Ministry accused the US of being the biggest cause of friction in the Taiwan Strait after the destroyer USS Benfold passed through the area.
China also accuses the US of being the biggest cybersecurity threat.
Washington and Moscow have also clashed over a range of issues including cyberattacks and Russian influence in Ukraine.
Military observer Song Zhongping sees China and Russia both seeking to improve relations with each other.
“First, it is very important for China and Russia to hold these joint exercises to maintain regional peace and stability, especially at a time when US hegemony is still present,” the former PLA instructor said.
“Strengthening military cooperation will help maintain regional peace and stability and counter the threat posed by the United States.”
“Secondly, terrorism is a global problem, and joint exercises aimed at counterterrorism can help solve this problem in the region,” he said.
(dea)
– .
