Penny Wong urges China to clarify live fire drills near Australia’s coast

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has called on China to be more transparent about its naval activities after a live fire drill near Australia's east coast. The warning was issued on short notice, causing flight diversions. Wong raised concerns with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during a G20 meeting in South Africa. The Chinese military did not inform Australia about the drill, which analysts describe as an unprecedented show of naval power. Australia's Defence Minister noted that such exercises typically require advance notice to minimize disruptions. The Chinese military stated the drills were conducted safely and in accordance with international laws.