Defense Ministry denies naval task force directed at Australia

A Chinese defense spokesperson responded on Friday to Australian claims that a Chinese naval task force might be heading toward Australia, stating that the Chinese Navy's far-sea training "is not directed at any specific country or target."

Defense Ministry spokesman Jiang Bin made the remarks at an online press briefing when asked about comments by a senior Australian official.

According to Australian media reports, a senior defense official said on Monday that the Australian Defence Force was tracking a People's Liberation Army Navy task force, adding that while its destination was unknown, it could be heading toward Australia.

Jiang said that the PLA Navy's far-sea training exercises were conducted in alignment with international law and international practice and were not aimed at any particular country or objective.