Navy plans drill near Zhoushan

The Chinese navy will soon launch a drill in waters near Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province, as part of its annual exercise plan, the Defense Ministry said on Monday.

The ministry made the announcement on its website in response to reports saying that the navy will conduct a six-day, live ammunition drill starting on Tuesday in the East China Sea.

The People's Liberation Army issued two announcements on July 2 prohibiting all vessels from entering its designated exercise area during the period, and urging them to follow naval ships' instructions to guarantee safety.