Iran, China, Russia to hold more naval drills in vital waterways

Ghanbar Naderi
Press TV, Indian Ocean

The four-day military drills by the naval forces of Iran, Russia and China are just the beginning of a trilateral cooperation which will continue. That’s what the commander of the Iranian navy says.

Speaking to Press TV, on the third day of the trilateral military exercises in the Indian Ocean, rear admiral Khanzadi said other regional countries are also more than welcome to join future drills with the three navies.

Khanzadi termed the drills as a historic success for the three navies, arguing that the region doesn’t need trans-regional powers and that regional peace and security can and should be ensured by all regional states.

The naval drills kicked off on Friday in Iran's Chabahar on the Gulf of Oman. They cover 17,000 square kilometers and consist of various tactical exercises, such as target practice and rescuing ships from assaults and fires.

The drills aim to secure international trade routes in strategic waterways and boost preparedness among participants against piracy and marine terrorism. The three countries hold cultural meetings and discussions on the final day of the drill.

The trilateral military exercises by the naval forces of Iran, Russia and China wraps up on Monday, December 30. The three navies plan to hold more drills in the future.

Press TV’s website can also be accessed at the following alternate addresses:

www.presstv.co.uk