China has accused Australia of exaggerating concerns over recent Chinese live-fire naval drills in international waters. Wu Qian, a spokesperson for the Chinese defence ministry, said Australian complaints were “hyped up” and “inconsistent with the facts”. The Chinese navy conducted live-fire exercises between Australia and New Zealand, sparking airline flight diversions.
China maintains its actions complied with international law and did not affect aviation safety. However, Beijing claims Australia made unreasonable accusations without satisfactory notice. New Zealand also observed the drills and is monitoring a Chinese vessel fleet.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/china-accuses-australia-hyping-chinese-naval-drills-2025-02-23