China justifies its military drills in the East Sea
(VOVworld) – Despite of strong opposition from Vietnam and the international community, China continued to launch military drill in the areas covering islands and reefs in the northeast of Vietnam’s Hoang Sa (Paracel) archipelago.
China said that holding naval drills is a common practice of its navy which is in accordance with international law and practices. China’s Maritime Safety Administration announced China would conduct a military drill from July 22 to 31 in waters to the east of Hainan island and also ban ships approaching the areas which were zoned for its drills. But this area covers islands and reefs in the northeast of Vietnam’s Hoang Sa archipelago. China has voiced to justify its action in response to strong objections from Vietnam and the international community. China suggested other countries avoid “excessive interpretations" and said China will continue to hold more military exercises in the coming time.