A flotilla sent by the People's Liberation Army Navy for the China-Russia "Joint Sea-2025" naval exercise arrived in Vladivostok on Thursday, according to the PLA Navy.

The Navy said in a news release on Friday that commanders of the Chinese and Russian forces involved in the multiday event, whose names were not disclosed, took part in a welcome ceremony at a naval port in Vladivostok and addressed attendees.

The Russian officer said that there is a deep-seated friendship between the Chinese and Russian peoples. With the continuous deepening and expansion of China-Russia joint exercises and training, the mutual trust between the two sides has been continuously enhanced, and the friendship has been constantly consolidated.

"We will continue to carry out joint operations and friendly visits, and jointly safeguard the tranquility and security of the seas in the Asia-Pacific region," the Russian commander was quoted by the release as saying.

The Chinese commander stated that holding the "Joint Sea" series of exercises is a practical measure to implement the strategic consensus of the two nations' presidents, an important manifestation of deepening the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination in the new era, and a firm practice of jointly defending international fairness and justice and maintaining regional peace and stability.

According to the PLA Navy, the Chinese flotilla consists of CNS Shaoxing and CNS Urumqi, two Type 052D guided missile destroyers, CNS Qiandao Lake, a Type 903 supply ship, and CNS Xihu, a comprehensive rescue ship. Aircraft sent by China's naval aviation force and troops from the PLA Navy's Marine Corps will also take part in the bilateral exercise.

During the port visit, the Chinese and Russian sides are scheduled to hold seminars, and open house activities, ball games, deck receptions and other exchange activities.

In the naval exercise stage, the two sides will carry out submarine support and rescue, air-defense, and anti-missile and anti-ship combat drills, according to the PLA Navy.

Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesman for China's Ministry of National Defense, said the bilateral exercise is part of the annual cooperation plan between the two militaries, and is not directed against any third party.

zhaolei@chinadaily.com.cn

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