China rejects apology for live-fire drills near Australia

China's ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, stated that there is no reason for his country to apologize for recent live-fire military drills conducted in international waters between Australia and New Zealand, which caused at least 49 flight diversions. Both Australia and New Zealand expressed concerns about the lack of notice regarding the drills, with Australian officials learning about them from a civilian pilot rather than from the Chinese navy. Xiao defended the exercises as compliant with international law and standard practices, asserting they did not pose a threat to Australia. The Australian government acknowledged China's right to operate in the area but criticized the insufficient notification, with Defence Secretary Greg Moriarty indicating that such drills may become more frequent in the future. Despite the tensions, Xiao emphasized the importance of the partnership between China and Australia, downplaying any need for concern. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong voiced deep concerns over the incident, highlighting the disruption it caused to commercial aviation.