China defends naval drills as Australia raises concerns

China's defense ministry has responded to Australian complaints about recent live-fire naval drills, calling them exaggerated and factually incorrect. The drills took place in international waters between Australia and New Zealand. Australia's Defense Minister Richard Marles criticized China for insufficient notice regarding the drills, which led to flight diversions. In contrast, China claims it provided adequate safety notices and acted within international law. New Zealand has also noted the ongoing Chinese naval exercises and is monitoring the situation closely.