By South China Morning Post | Created at 2025-01-19 06:06:15 | Updated at 2025-01-19 09:00:58
2 hours ago
The Chinese military has carried two-day joint combat readiness patrols in the South China Sea amid ongoing tensions with the Philippines over the strategically important waters.
The People’s Liberation Army Southern Theatre Command said its naval and air forces had patrolled the waters on Friday and Saturday.
“The patrols were meant to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea region, and any military activities that disrupt the South China Sea are fully under control,” the statement said, without providing further details.
It was the first patrol of the year and coincided with a joint air and sea exercise involving the Philippine and United States militaries.
The exercises took place days before Donald Trump’s return to the White House on Monday.
China’s military and coastguards have stepped up their activities in the disputed waters in recent years and Trump’s second term could see tensions with the Philippines increasing further.
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