China, Russia and Iran to conduct naval drills in Gulf of Oman

The joint naval exercises with the participation of Iran and Russia scheduled to take place in the Gulf of Oman from March 15-19, Chinese Defense Ministry announced today.

"In accordance with the agreements of the armed forces of Russia, China, Iran and other countries, the naval forces of China, Iran, Russia and other countries will conduct joint naval exercises '2023 Marine Security Belt' in the Gulf of Oman from March 15-19," the ministry said.

The drills will help “deepen practical cooperation among the navies of participating countries,” the ministry added.

Russia-China military cooperation

Earlier, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said that relations between Russia and China were a major factor supporting global stability in the world today.

"Bilateral relations between our countries have reached a new, unprecedented level and have become a major factor supporting global stability in the face of increasing geopolitical tensions in the world," he added.