Military observers believe the first joint naval drill of Chinese and Russian naval forces in the Mediterranean Sea in mid-May suggests the two countries' determination to further strengthen their military ties amid potential international conflicts.

Since China's Defense Ministry made the announcement on April 30, the exercise has drawn intense media attention over its political and military implications.

A total of nine ships from the two countries will participate in the drill, including vessels China now has on anti-piracy patrols in waters off Somalia, Chinese defense ministry spokesman Geng Yansheng said at a monthly news briefing.

bbabo.Net