China Defends Military Drills Near Australia, Dismisses Apology Calls

China’s ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, defended recent naval drills in international waters between Australia and New Zealand, stating there was no reason for China to apologize. The live-fire exercises forced at least 49 flights to reroute, prompting concerns from both Australia and New Zealand over inadequate notice.

Xiao asserted that China followed international law and provided sufficient advance notice in line with global practices. He dismissed concerns, emphasizing that China’s naval activities posed no threat and should be expected as part of routine operations.

"As a major regional power, it is normal for China to send vessels for various activities," Xiao told ABC News, suggesting more Chinese naval presence in the region in the future. The task group, consisting of a frigate, cruiser, and replenishment vessel, has since moved west across the Great Australian Bight, according to the New Zealand Defence Force.

Australian air traffic control officials revealed that a Virgin Australia pilot was the first to alert them about the drill via an emergency radio channel, typically monitored by pilots. Defence Chief David Johnston told a parliamentary committee that the Defence Department likely learned of the drill over 30 minutes after it began.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, trailing in polls ahead of an election, played down the incident, stating that China acted within international maritime law. However, the opposition Liberal-National coalition criticized the delay in the Defence Force’s awareness, calling it a serious issue.

The incident underscores ongoing tensions in the Indo-Pacific, where China's expanding military activities continue to test regional relations.