November 16, 2022 – 09:11
In recent years, the US and its allies have denounced China’s growing assertiveness in the region.
WASHINGTON.- USA, Japan, Australia and Canada are conducting naval exercises in Japanese and international waters, the US Navy said Wednesday.
without directly mentioning Chinathe US 7th Fleet indicated that the “Sharp Sword” exercises include scenarios designed to “test the capabilities required for the defense of Japan and maintain the stability of the Indo-Pacific region.”
The United States and its allies have in recent years denounced China’s growing assertiveness in the Pacific.
The exercises, which are held every two years and last for two weeks, also come at a time when the leaders of the Group of 20 most developed countries meet in Indonesia and other regional forums.
The G20 summit in Bali marked the first face-to-face meeting between US President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping since Biden took office, raising hopes of an easing of tensions over trade, technology and Taiwan.
The maneuvers include training anti-submarine missiles and the USS Benfold fired their guns on Sunday as part of drills, the 7th Fleet said in a statement. Three Japanese destroyers, two Canadian frigates and an Australian destroyer are also taking part in the exercises, it added.
The participation of the Australian and Canadian Navies this year will help “enhance readiness and interoperability in order to support the security interests of allies and partners in the region,” he added.
“Regional security is a collective effort today more than ever,” Benfold Commander Marcus Seeger said in a statement. “We share a sense of collective endeavor. The first wave of crisis reaction will have the same allies present at this year’s Sharp Sword exercises.”
FUENTE: With information from AP
