China and Russia kicked off a seven-day joint military exercise Monday. The militaries from both countries gathered in China's Ningxia region to conduct various military drills and activities.
The exercises, called the Sibu Cooperation 2021, will last until Friday and will involve more than 10,000 ground troops and air forces. Russian military officials said they have sent Su-30SM fighter jets, air defense systems, and motorized rifle units to join the exercise.
The last time the two countries conducted joint exercises was in 2005. This time around, Russian soldiers will now be introduced to Chinese-made weapon systems.
State-run media in China said the joint exercises are meant to strengthen both nations' "anti-terrorism" capabilities. The agency, citing Chinese and Russian officials, added that the activities demonstrate the two nations' commitment to safeguarding "international and regional security and stability."
"It reflects the new height of the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era and of the strategic mutual trust, pragmatic exchanges, and coordination between the two countries," a report from Xinhua said.
The commencement of the joint military exercises comes as tensions between China and the U.S. continue to escalate. The U.S. and its allies have been at odds with China over various issues such as human rights and regional security.
Analysts at the Australia-based Lowy Institute said China and Russia are likely being forced to deepen their bond given their shared interest, including their opposition of the U.S. and its allies.
The U.S. has repeatedly accused China of genocide and human rights violations for its treatment of Uyghur Muslims and disrupting regional security for its continued territorial assertion in the South China Sea. China has denied both accusations, with officials warning the U.S. to keep out of its internal affairs.
Regarding its alleged human rights violations in Xinjiang, Chinese officials have asserted that their efforts in the region center around their fight against "separatism and terrorism." Officials said reports of torture, forced sterilization, illegal detention, and other violations are greatly exaggerated.
As for its claims over much of the South China Sea, China has rejected the ruling of the Arbitral Tribunal. China still claims sovereignty over much of the contested territory, a claim that is backed by Russia.
