China, Saudi Arabia begin 3-phase joint naval drill

By Esra Tekin

ISTANBUL (AA) - China and Saudi Arabia have launched a three-phase joint naval special operation training, "Blue Sword-2023."

The opening ceremony was held Monday at the naval brigade camp of the People's Liberation Army in Guangdong, a coastal province of southeast China, with more than 100 participants from the two sides.

Saudi Arabian commander hoped the two sides would "further strengthen cooperation to reach the goal of the joint training,” according to a statement by China’s Defense Ministry.

The Chinese troop commander said the training of the special forces would enhance military cooperation and improve combat readiness.

He expressed hope that individuals from both sides would gain knowledge from one another, work closely together, excel in every training aspect and enhance their combined operational skills.

The joint military drill is concentrated on anti-terrorism operations in foreign maritime environments and consists of three stages: basic training, specialized training, and comprehensive exercises.